Principal’s Report Summer 2025
Challenging Times
Dear Parents
This past year has challenged our school community in ways we could never have anticipated. Just a few weeks ago, while visiting an independent school Headteacher in Manchester (a dedicated leader who has served her school with distinction for over thirty years), she remarked that she has never experienced conditions as demanding as those we face today. I’m sure that her feelings resonate with many of us: these are indeed exceptionally challenging times!
Political uncertainty, rising operational costs, VAT on school fees and ongoing pressures in the wider economy have combined to create the worst possible financial climate. Like many schools across the country, we have had to make difficult choices to protect the long‑term health of our school. Chief among these has been the increase in school fees.
Please know that every decision was carefully considered, with the wellbeing of our pupils and the stability of our staff at the forefront. We remain determined to preserve the outstanding education, pastoral care, and extra‑curricular experiences that define our school.
We are acutely aware of the demands these increases place on household budgets, and we remain committed to transparency. Based on our current forecasts, we anticipate that fees will stabilize by September 2026. We will, of course, keep you informed should circumstances change. In the meantime, we are pursuing cost‑saving initiatives, seeking strategic partnerships, and advocating on behalf of independent schools at both local and national levels. Our goal is simple: to ensure that our school remains a place where pupils thrive academically, socially, and emotionally—now and well into the future.
On a even sadder note, this term we have had to say some very difficult goodbyes. A handful of our long‑standing families, facing financial pressures, have made the painful decision to move on. Changing schools is a significant emotional and practical upheaval, and we know the courage it takes for a family to chart a new course. On behalf of the entire staff, we wish them every success.
Moments to Treasure
Despite these challenges, there is still so much to celebrate within our school community. The photographs that top and tail this report fill me with great pride and a deep sense of privilege to be part of this school. While there have been far too many memorable moments to mention them all here, I’ve chosen three standout occasions that epitomize what makes our school so remarkable.
A Prom to Remember – Rainhill Hall provided the perfect backdrop for our Year 11 Prom, and our students, suits pressed and gowns sparkling rose to the occasion in real style. The evening – capped by Mr Leigh’s rendition of “I Believe in a Thing Called Love,” – wasn’t merely a celebration; it was a testament to the pupils’ friendships, determination and maturity. Now, with exams behind them and results day looming, we have every faith that their hard work will translate into a set of GCSE grades as impressive as the young people themselves.
Extraordinary Talent – We also enjoyed an exceptional Talent Show, masterfully coordinated by Miss Midgely and Mrs Poole. The evening felt more like a West End variety bill than a school production: illusions, original artwork, stand-up comedy, contemporary dance, an RAF-inspired video montage, and vocal and piano performances. One especially memorable act came from Dino, whose powerful drumming of a Metallica track left the audience stunned — a remarkable display of talent and confidence.
Graduating with Pride – Finally, our series of Graduation Assemblies provided space to celebrate every pupil. Certificates, trophies, and rounds of applause honoured academic milestones, sporting triumphs, acts of kindness, and leadership. The pride in the room, shared equally by parents and staff, perfectly captured our school’s ethos: that learning is a partnership built on encouragement, hard work, and joy.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on a term filled with celebration, we’re also turning our attention to the future … and there is much to look forward to.
Early Years Foundation Stage Classrooms (EYFS) – This summer, the EYFS classrooms are undergoing a significant redevelopment. The improvements will create enhanced, engaging spaces that better support the learning and development of our youngest children.
Parent Forum – We’re delighted to announce that this will launch in the Autumn term. This initiative is designed to strengthen the vital partnership between school and home, giving families a greater voice in our community. You’ll soon hear more about your class’s parent representative, and we look forward to working together to ensure the best outcomes for all our pupils.
Fond Farewells and New Beginnings
This term, we bid farewell to Mr Southward and Mrs Harris. Both have made meaningful contributions to our school, and we thank them for their dedication and care. We wish them every success and happiness in their new ventures.
At the same time, we are delighted to welcome two new members to the Tower College team: Mrs Sabeeya Sims, who joins our Computer Science department, and Mr Rob Williams, who joins us in PE. You can learn more about them in the staff bios featured later. We are confident they will be wonderful additions to our community and look forward to the energy and expertise they will bring to their roles.
Thank You!
Thank you, as always, for your continued support throughout what has been a demanding yet rewarding year. Your encouragement, involvement, and trust mean so much to us and have made a real difference in the lives of our pupils.
We hope you and your family are enjoying a restful, joyful, and well-deserved summer break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in September, refreshed and ready for a new term.
