Inspiring speeches about Worth

Our outgoing Head Boy and Head Girl spoke powerfully at Speech Day about the values Worth instils in students and how individuals are able to flourish in a supportive environment at the School.

Freddie and Amity delivered excellent speeches in a packed Abbey Church, complementing those of Head Master Mr Stuart McPherson and our guest speaker, Alexander McLean.

Speaking first, Freddie talked as a Year 13 leaver about ‘how long does Worth really last?’ – a lifetime or just the duration someone is at the school, concluding in favour of the former that being a Worthian is something that stays with you for life.

He said: “What Worth gives you that lasts a lifetime is a value. A value that represents a web of relationships; a medium to practise humble silence; an environment to worship others and a way to serve them. This value has made us who we are, and has sculpted not only our experiences, but the decisions we will come to make. It is the foundation of Benedictine life. It is the value of community that lasts a lifetime.”

He added: “I find comfort in the idea that something will remain from my time here – even if community is all that is left, I would be content with that. I suppose that Worth must really last a lifetime.”

Amity began with a quote. She said: “‘About to embark on a journey to an unfamiliar destination, you board the bus. You are yet to find a seat when it takes off from the stop. Caught off balance, unsteady on your feet, you look for your place.’ Thinking back to my first day in Year 9, arriving in St Mary’s with two of my sisters and a car resembling Mary Poppins’ carpet bag, I think I can say that I was feeling similar emotions. Before long however, my peers and I were able to find our place. We would like to thank all the teachers who have given us time, knowledge and experience as we have travelled through here. Personally, I would like to thank those who have supported me, often going above and beyond to bring out my best, and nurture self-belief, and confidence.

“I was equipped and supported to navigate the bumps along the way to finally, in these last couple of years, flourish in those areas of particular interest and ability. Thank you to all the matrons, the incredible women who provide the cushions and comfort. You take time to know us as individuals and will be truly missed.”

We wish Amity, Freddie and all our Year 13 students the very best as they go forth to university and beyond, and look forward to hearing about their future successes.

For more on an education at Worth click here.

To read more about Speech Day click here.