Spring Term in Review with Principal Dan Hards
The Spring Term has been marked by continued progress across the College, as students have carried forward the enthusiasm of the Autumn and applied themselves with increasing focus, determination and growing confidence.
There has been a noticeable sense of commitment throughout the College community, with students challenging themselves, working collaboratively, and fully engaging with the opportunities around them.
The 6.2 mock examinations following the February half term were approached with maturity and resilience, reflecting a readiness for the final stages of their courses. Classrooms have felt purposeful and ambitious, with students increasingly taking ownership of their progress and next steps.
This term has also been pivotal in supporting progression beyond college. Our Higher Education Evening on 10 March and Higher Education Day on 19 March provided valuable opportunities for students to explore their options and engage directly with universities and employers. The Higher Education Day, which brought together over 80 universities and 15 apprenticeship providers alongside a programme of guidance sessions, captured the ambition and aspiration that runs through the College.
We are especially proud to celebrate a record number of Oxbridge offers this year, with 14 students securing places at Oxford and Cambridge — the highest in the College’s history. These offers span a wide range of subjects and reflect both the intellectual curiosity of our students and the strength of support provided by staff. Particularly noteworthy is that four of these offers are unconditional and have been awarded to 2025 leavers.
Beyond the classroom, the richness of college life has continued to shine through. Our Economics students experienced New York, visiting the United Nations and the Federal Reserve, bringing their studies vividly to life. Our 6.1 Politics students, meanwhile, witnessed democracy in action through a visit to the Houses of Parliament and Europe House, including observing a live House of Lords debate — an experience that prompted thoughtful discussion about complex political and moral issues.
Perhaps most striking, once again, has been the strength of our community. There remains a strong sense that Esher is a place where people look out for one another and take pride in their shared environment.
As we move towards the Summer Term, attention will naturally turn to external examinations and the culmination of two years of hard work. If the Spring Term is anything to go by, we can look ahead with confidence.
Wishing all our students, parents and carers, staff and friends a restful Easter break.
