Dear parents and caregivers,

As I reflect on my final words to the wonderful Wakefield Girls’ community, I am overwhelmed with pride. The pivotal moments, meaningful relationships, remarkable achievements as well as the hard times that shape who we are, have become part of our shared legacy.

I count myself truly fortunate to have joined a family of students, parents, staff, and alumnae deeply committed to empowering young women to be whoever and whatever they aspire to be, preparing each for lives of success, on their own terms. Together we have lived and invested in values that have profoundly supported our girls’ growth.

During my time at Wakefield Girls’ the world has changed; and so have we. 

We have grown in our understanding of the critical importance of nurturing students. Our students are culturally competent, aware, and capable of fostering an authentic sense of belonging for all members of our community. This is as a result of increased awareness and the need for justice. By empowering our students and ensuring their voices are heard, they have the opportunity to influence our environment for the better. This can only stand them in good stead for the future and I am proud of each and everyone at Wakefield Girls’ and all we have achieved together. We lean on each other – and into this ethos – this is central to our school’s identity and approach.

It has been my privilege to serve as your Head and to play a part in everyone’s story.

I will miss our students. I know that wherever life takes them and whatever they do, the people they meet are incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to get to know them. I hope they never lose sight of how fabulous they all are and I look forward to hearing about their continued success.    

To my dedicated colleagues, thank you for delivering our values daily with commitment and expertise, always putting our students at the heart of all you do. I am not sure there are many workplace communities that offer the camaraderie and understanding that we are lucky to have at Wakefield Girls’.

 To the Board of Governors, I am grateful for your unwavering support and belief in my leadership and I am confident that the Foundation will continue to flourish, inspire, and lead.  To our alumnae, for your wisdom and devotion to Wakefield Girls’. 

I wish Dr Brookes and Mrs Gill and Mrs Tingle all the very best in their new roles commencing in January 2025.

 Above all, I am thankful to Wakefield Girls’ families for your partnership.

Today I leave Wakefield Girls’ and tomorrow I move home, ready for a new and exciting challenge in a new part of the country. Just in time for Christmas. It’s all going to be a whirlwind, probably best in many respects. This was my first headship and I will always be deeply connected to WGHS and the community of the school. Whilst I can’t box up Wakefield Girls’ itself (and just how special it is), I will always have a piece of it with me and I look forward to watching the continued success and growth of the Foundation with affection, from afar.

Thank you all for these unforgettable years and for the honour of being part of this community.

 Yours,

Heidi-Jayne Boyes

Head of Wakefield Girls’