Speech Day brought together pupils, families, staff and alumni in a wonderful celebration of the school year, with an inspirational keynote speech from Dr Vanessa Lawrence, CB. Dr Vanessa Lawrence was Director General and CEO of the Ordnance Survey for 14 years and is now co-chairman of the United Nations Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management.

The day opened with a fete with highlights including an art exhibition, judo display and the musical ride, with a Pirates of the Caribbean theme. The Romania Challenge team officially kicked off their fundraising with a colourful stall, collecting sponsorship for their Autumn bike ride. Old Stonarians took on the 1st XI in a netball match, but they were no match for the current Stonar team who rounded off their unbeaten season with another victory. The Stonar community of parents, pupils, staff and alumni relaxed together over a buffet lunch before taking their seats for prize-giving and speeches.

Those coming to the end of a chapter in their school career were celebrated in a prize giving ceremony. Dr Vanessa Lawrence, CB, delivered a compelling keynote speech, giving a fascinating insight of the myriad ways in which geography underpins everyday life. She then drew on her own school and life experiences to illustrate that opportunities do not always arise in the way you expect and that you should never be discouraged by setbacks. She concluded with the inspiring message that ‘if you can dream it, you can do it’.

A wonderful and uplifting day.