The Chair of Governors, Mr Mark Edwards, told Speech Day that the future for Queen’s was looking extremely positive.

He said that the new Head (Mr Julian Noad) was starting in September and investments were planned within the fabric of the school over the coming year.

“When we started the process of looking for a new Head, it was the perfect time to sit and hink about what we are looking for and the future shape of Queen’s College.”

He thanked all those who had contributed to the parental research project as part of the exercise.

“This work is invaluable in helping us to make sure we are delivering what is wanted and critically focus on areas we can improve or, indeed, strive to aim higher where it’s clear we excel.”

Mr Edwards added: “The Board of Governors are committed to realising the ambition of Queen’s being a modern all-through college, truly fit for the 21st century.”

He paid tribute to the current Head, Dr Lorraine Earps, who is leaving after five years in charge to take up a headship in Cheshire.

“We want to thank Lorraine for her leadership, and wish her well for her future career.”

Dr Earps thanked everyone who had supported her, particularly during the many challenges in the Covid-19 pandemic.

She singled out members of her leadership team and also praised the teachers and support staff, along with the pupils who had been “amazing”.

In her final speech, she showed two films – a collection of her favourite memories at Queen’s and a specially-recorded farewell song with students.

Speech Day also heard from the Head Boy and Head Girl, Ollie and Molly, and Mr Oscar Webb, president of the Old Queenians Association, below right.

The guest speaker was Mr Richard Browning (OQ 1987-97), our very own Iron Man, top right.

He spoke of his remarkable from Queen’s to launching his own (literally) high-flying business.

We also enjoyed a successful Junior Speech Day in the Queen’s Hall.

As well as the speeches, there were prayers, poems, presentations to leaving staff, and plenty of prizes to give out.

In his speech, Mr Edwards announced that Junior would be changing its name to Queen’s College Prep School.

He also launched his Chairman’s Challenge – inviting all the pupils to write poems which will, hopefully, be published in a book.

Meanwhile, Mr Henry Matthews thanked everyone who had supported him through his first year at Junior School Head.

He also paid tribute to the children, telling them: “Your resilience, compassion, creativity, positive attitude and enthusiasm have been a guiding light to us all.”