WELCOME// HEADMASTERS FAREWELL
“The characteristic
that sets Pocklingtonians
apart – the Spirit of Pock –
is hard to pin down but
easy to recognise in the
mutual support, respect,
friendship, sense of fun
and a quiet confidence”.
We all come to school to learn and venturing out of our
comfort zone is an essential part of that. I have practised what
I’ve preached – and can attest that I have learned a lot about
myself along the way. The first of these that spring to mind is
my lack of dancing ability. Apologies once again to Sheena
McNamee, my dance partner for the Strictly Pock charity
dancing competition, held in aid of Help for Heroes. As we
strutted our stuff to Disco Inferno, I was consistently half a
beat off the rhythm; and take full responsibility for our lack
of success.
I thoroughly enjoyed my acting sojourn when I joined the cast
of Animal Farm last year, but despite the kindness of the cast
and my euphoria at getting through it, I realise a career switch
was never on the cards. Ditto my solo singing attempts, which
our Director of Music Martin Kettlewell called “courageous”. I
will also not forget when then-pupil Will Blackburn took me on
a glider flight over the Yorkshire Wolds. His calm confidence
helped me face down my flying fears – and reminded me that
as teachers; the best service we can provide is to instil the
confidence and courage to allow pupils to take the lead.
Undoubtedly the greatest reward of being part of Pocklington
School has been the pupils themselves. All that they achieve,
in the classroom, on the sports field, on the stage and in other
co-curricular areas, is a testament to their strengths and drive.
The characteristic that sets Pocklingtonians apart – the Spirit
of Pock – is hard to pin down but easy to recognise in the
mutual support, respect, friendship, sense of fun and a quiet
confidence.
6
THE POCKLINGTONIAN
I received the following email from a teacher who met our
teachers and students on their tour of South Africa this
summer:
“Having just returned from South Africa myself I felt that you would
like to hear about the very favourable impression the pupils and staff of
your school made on my wife and I as we shared time with them at the
Kariega game reserve at the end of our respective trips.
The pupils conduct was exemplary at all times and their sense of fun
and enjoyment throughout was evident. As a teacher myself who has
experience taking groups abroad I can appreciate the care and planning
which goes in to making the tour a success.
The staff supervision was excellent and you should be proud of how this
group represented your school.”
I will always be proud of all we have achieved together at
Pocklington School. I will continue to carry the Spirit of Pock
with me and wish you all the very best as I leave you in the very
capable hands of new Headmaster Toby Seth.
Mark Ronan