WGS was proud to host its annual Senior School Speech Day, a joyful and reflective celebration that brought together pupils, families, staff, and distinguished guests to recognise the achievements of the academic year and mark new beginnings.
In his Speech Day address, Mr Rimmer reflected on a transformative year for the school. He spoke with pride about the school’s successful ISI inspection, where inspectors praised the collaborative, caring culture of WGS. “The report felt like it was written by one of us,” he said. “It captured what we are about — collaboration, community and opportunity — and where we are heading as we look to our 650th anniversary in 2029.”
Mr Rimmer praised the pupils for their commitment across all areas of school life, from the vibrancy of House competitions to the flourishing creative and performing arts. The Drama department produced standout performances at school and local theatres, while the Music department celebrated exceptional Trinity exam success and a memorable choir performance at St Paul’s Cathedral. Pupils continued to excel in sport both regionally and nationally, with a highlight on the horizon: a summer sports tour to Barbados.
Guest speaker Mr Tom Berry, an Old Grammarian and Member of the Council at King’s College London, delivered a thoughtful and humorous address that resonated across generations. Drawing on his own school memories and diverse career, Tom spoke about the lasting value of human connection, resilience, and curiosity. Using school subjects as metaphors, he shared lessons beyond the syllabus — encouraging pupils to judge slowly, read between the lines, embrace cultural difference, resist the fear of failure, and above all, remain “excellent human beings.” His reflections reminded leavers that while AI may spark ideas, it’s real people, values, and friendships that carry us safely through life.
As always, one of the most moving moments of the day came with Mr Rimmer’s message to the Upper Sixth leavers. “As you embark on your next adventure, carry with you the spirit of WGS. Be humble in your successes, steadfast in your integrity, and always inclusive of others. Seek partnerships, embrace collaboration, and remain open to new ideas,” he said. “Above all, approach life with compassion, curiosity, and confidence. And keep in touch.”
Later that evening, at the Upper Sixth Leavers’ Dinner, Mr Rimmer built on this message, encouraging pupils to reflect on the friendships, growth, and experiences that have shaped their time at WGS. “Focus on who you are, rather than what you are,” he said. “The qualities that matter — being reliable, honest, hardworking and kind — are what people will remember. These are the qualities you already carry with you.” He left leavers with a final reflection: “Remember the laughter, the lessons, and the friendships. Keep the connections strong — this isn’t goodbye, it’s see you later. Let’s make an effort to stay in touch and see what adventures we have in store.”
Senior School Speech Day 2025 was once again a powerful reminder that Wisbech Grammar School is not only a place of academic and co-curricular excellence, but a community where pupils are known, supported, and inspired to become the very best version of themselves.