Middle School
When I took over as Head of
Middle School, I had only a
vague idea of what to expect.
I soon realised that besides
monitoring the learning of 115
students, there was a need to
wear the pastoral hat and to
develop a personal relationship
with each one of them,
understand them better and
create a comfortable school
environment for them. They
would then be inspired enough
to achieve personal excellence.
For the year 10s, we had our
bonding trip a bit late into term
one but it proved to be of value
in developing new friendships
based on mutual respect. They
are a very cohesive group,
working, sharing and playing
together. A number of students
joined us in year 10 but looking
at them today, it is difficult
to believe that they have not
been in Hillcrest for a few years.
They are happy to be in school
and extremely involved, which
amplifies the fact that Hillcrest
is a family.
The once a fortnight assemblies
and study sessions provided
an opportunity for me to get
to know all the year 11s. They
worked independently, shared
knowledge and managed
their study space.
The year has been busy.
Besides making academic
progress, students have
participated in a range
of activities, with sports
obviously topping the
agenda.
Cross country brought all
students out on the field with
several exhibiting skills that
may make them soon outdo
our Kenyan track heroes! My
congratulations to all the U15,
U17 and U19 teams. Every
time I have watched them play,
I have seen the unity of purpose
and the determination to win.
Some students have developed
a niche for themselves in the
world of music and drama; they
have been at the forefront of all
performances, putting in a lot
of their time.
After their exams, the year 10s
went out for work experience.
From the reports they have
brought back from their
employers, they all gave a
good account of themselves.
The year 11s were buried in
their books for a greater part
of the year, which is certainly
responsible for their good
results. Some are moving on
to study overseas and I wish
them all the very best. They
concluded their academic year
with an exciting prom organised
by Anushka and her team and
graced by exquisitely dre ssed
young men and women.
I want to particularly thank
all the form tutors for their
assistance and support. To
the students, let me end with
a quote from Confucius: “It
doesn’t matter how slow you
go as long as you don’t stop”.
Let us move ahead confidently
in the true spirit of our motto
‘Semper Prospice’, inspired,
encouraged and empowered to
unlock our potential.
By Jane Akelola
18
2017 | Hillcrest Magazine