Autumn Term in Review with Principal Dan Hards
The Autumn Term has felt especially energising this year. From the moment students returned in September, there has been a real sense of purpose across the College — a feeling that everyone is pushing themselves, supporting one another, and making the most of the opportunities on offer.
One of the moments that captured this spirit brilliantly was our College Production, Cluedo. Watching the cast and crew bring such an ambitious show to life — with humour, confidence, and genuine teamwork — was a highlight of the term. The music students in the pit band, the 6.2 directors, and the technical team all played their part in creating something memorable. The Christmas Concert carried this feeling forward, showcasing not just talent but the joy our young musicians take in performing together.
I have also been struck by the maturity and ambition shown in academic areas. Our Maths students’ success in the Senior Mathematical Challenge demonstrated real intellectual curiosity and commitment, and our ALPS progress score placing Esher in the top 15% nationally is something every student and member of staff should feel proud of. It says a lot about the hard work happening every day in classrooms across the College.
Perhaps most inspiring of all has been the depth of our community spirit. The 50 hampers donated to the East Elmbridge Foodbank, the fundraising for Shelter, and the way our Student Union led events from Black History Month to Remembrance Day — these moments show our values in action. They reveal a community that cares about people beyond the College gates, and that’s something I hope our students carry with them long after they leave.
The Bar Mock Trial team, too, embodied this confidence and outward-looking mindset. Their commitment and poise in competition were a credit to the College.
As we turn towards the Spring Term, the focus will naturally shift to progression — preparing for UCAS decisions, apprenticeship opportunities, mock exams, and the final build-up towards summer assessments. But it will also be a term full of growth: more enrichment activities, employer and university engagement and trips.
If the Autumn Term is anything to go by, the months ahead will bring even more moments that remind us why Esher is such a special place to learn and work.
Wishing all our students, parents and carers, staff and friends, a very happy Christmas and a well-deserved break.
Dan Hards
Principal
