The splendour of Foundation Day returned once again as we celebrated the achievements of our upper school and sixth form, and unfortunately the life of one of our beloved Rugby High girls. Ophelia Clarke was recently taken from us and, although everyone is distressed by this tragic event, we tried not to dwell on the sadness of her loss but remembered the wonderful and cheerful person she was through tributes from some of her teachers and close friends. Ella, Becky, Hannah and Kelsee expressed the very fondest of memories of her and showed those who were not fortunate enough to know her just how kind and caring she was. The afternoon continued with the presentation of GCSE and A Level certificates. The year 11s and 13s of last year returned to celebrate the endless hours of hard work and blood, sweat and tears that went into gaining these qualifications. There were inspiring speeches from the head girl teams of new and old and the presentation of the house shield to Sharman house (GO SHARMAN!). This year's guest speaker was District Judge Louise McCabe, a previous student who gave a motivating speech on fighting for equality. After a beautiful musical performance from Rebecca Clarke and Millie Thompson, the whole school stood to sing the dreaded anthem. Despite the strange lyrics and excruciatingly high notes, all members of the Rugby High family learn to love the school anthem and it was great fun to perform it all together. Overall, it was a day of success tinged with sorrow, and one that will be remembered for a long time.

By Elise Scotney, Year 9