In our first school assembly this term our Heads of School, Mathilda and Oliver, delivered their ‘Thought for the week’. Mathilda and Oliver asked themselves “What would my year 7 self think of me now”. They encouraged pupils to sign up to new clubs and to step out of their comfort zones so that they can get the most out of their time here at RHS.
Read their “Thought for the week” here:
“Good morning school, the theme for this term’s ‘Thought for the Week’ is; ‘What I thought then vs what I know now”. So, we thought we would begin with a question, “What would my year 7 self think of me now?
Being in our final year here, the idea of making the most of our time has been reinforced and we completely agree. However, taking up opportunities given shouldn’t just be emphasized in your final year or at the last minute. Mathilda and I are both examples of people who have made sure to take up as many opportunities as possible.
I think if you told year 7 me that I’d be standing up here addressing the school I simply wouldn’t have believed you. I had confidence issues lower down the school, especially when it came to public speaking. The thought of talking to a large group of people terrified me, (don’t get me wrong I am still very nervous standing up here) but I have learned to overcome those fears over the course of my time here.
Year 7 me was enthralled by the clubs I saw on offer, and I had the bright idea to sign up to 13 of them - one every lunch time and after school all week. Although I would not consider taking up that many clubs again now, I don’t regret signing up to them and some of them have become my greatest passions, such as MUN and backstage drama.
If you spoke to your year 7 self now, what would they say to you? Would they feel you have used your time wisely? Or would they have wished you’d done more? Well let me tell you - it's never too late. We’re in our final year here and even now we’re looking for opportunities to further ourselves in both our academics and our co-curriculars.
The school itself is a huge cultural change for everyone - especially when it comes to the school traditions. Year 7 me thought the idea of divisions was silly – but now it is one of my highlights, and I guarantee that by the time you get to Nelson it will be one of yours too. It’s great to see the school come together to continue a tradition that has been in practice since the school’s founding. The discipline and pride in appearance is a unique experience that I’m certain we will miss when we leave.
If you’re debating whether to join a club or committee, do it. While I still believe that doing lots of the co-curricular activities, we offer here is a great way to discover new passions and have fun - heed my warning and make sure you still have time for prep. Why not try something new whether that be debating, choir, amnesty international, Big Band or even swimming?
We hope you’ve all had a great first two weeks – whether you’re starting your GCSEs or A-levels – or are even starting secondary for the first time – our tip for you - Embrace every minute.”