Honouring St Margaret: A Day of Giving Back

Honouring St Margaret: A Day of Giving Back

19th November 2025

Pupils from across the School came together last week to bring music, kindness, and connection to the community as part of St Margaret’s Day — our annual celebration of service inspired by the compassion of our School’s namesake.

A visit to local care home, Bushey House Beaumont, became more than an opportunity for our music students to perform; it was a genuine exchange of warmth and connection, creating moments that beautifully captured the spirit of giving at the heart of St Margaret’s Day.

A Life of Compassion

St Margaret is remembered for her compassion, generosity and unwavering commitment to helping those in need. She championed education, cared for the vulnerable and approached every act with humility and purpose. Her example continues to guide our community today, reminding us that service is a way of life, something lived out in everyday actions, big and small.

This ethos is deeply embedded within our School. Service is part of our DNA, and all pupils are expected to complete 100 hours of service during their time with us. Through experiences like St Margaret’s Day, pupils develop an understanding of social responsibility and the value of contributing meaningfully to the wider community.

Our recent ISI inspection highlighted just how strong this culture of service is across the School:

“Pupils are encouraged to contribute to the wider community through structured service opportunities. Activities include volunteering in local charities, assisting with foodbanks and participating in community events. For example, musical performances for local residents and a school-wide expectation of completing 100 hours of service during their time in the School, contribute to pupils’ understanding of community needs and their role in contributing positively to society.”

Small Gestures, Lasting Impact

Year 7 pupil Vinnie added his own thoughtful touch to the day, baking homemade cookies and hand-delivering them to the care home residents. His gesture was simple yet heartfelt, and it perfectly embodied the kindness St Margaret’s Day celebrates.

Elsewhere in the school, Year 9 pupil Emine demonstrated her commitment to service in a different but equally impressive way. After spending her summer studying diligently to earn her Basic First Aid Level 2 (VTQ), she put her skills to use by supporting Mr Murton in delivering first aid sessions in the Junior School. Her willingness to share her learning with younger pupils is a powerful example of giving back.

This ethos of paying it forward starts from the very beginning of pupils’ time here, as noted by the ISI:

“From an early age, children learn about social responsibility. In the early years, activities are used effectively to teach them about people who help in the community and to encourage them to take responsibility, such as planning activities for younger pupils.”

A Living Legacy

St Margaret’s Day reminds us that service extends far beyond a single event. It is strengthened each time our pupils step forward to help, to share, or to brighten someone’s day; whether by performing music, volunteering in the community, offering first aid skills or delivering a homemade cookie with a smile.

As you watch the video, we hope you see not just the notes played, but the connections formed, the compassion shared, and the living legacy of St Margaret reflected in the actions of our pupils.

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