There are few moments in the Grovian calendar quite like Leavers’ Weekend. It is the point where years of hard work, friendship and growth come together in one unforgettable few days, and this year’s celebrations lived up to every expectation.

Prize Day: Celebrating Achievement

Saturday began with Prize Day, our chance to recognise the achievements of pupils across every area of school life, from the classroom to the stage to the sports field. This year we were delighted to welcome Becky Ives, sports presenter, as our guest speaker, who spoke candidly about resilience, ambition and her experience as a student here at The Grove.

The most moving moment of the morning came from our Head Prefects, whose speech likened their Grove journey to a marathon: full of highs, tough stretches and the kind of support from friends and staff that gets you over the line. It was a fitting reminder that academic excellence and personal growth go hand in hand, and that the character built here stays with pupils long after they leave.

Sports Day: Sunshine and Friendly Rivalry

The sun was out again for Sports Day, and so was the school’s competitive spirit. Houses battled it out across a full programme of track and field events, with plenty of friendly rivalry along the way. The undisputed highlight, was the staff tug of war, part of our Giving Week for 2026. It is exactly this kind of shared experience, pupils and staff cheering side by side, that makes The Grove what it is.

Leavers’ Ball: A Fitting Send Off

Saturday evening brought the Leavers’ Ball, a joyful and elegant close to the day. Our Year 13 leavers, dressed to the nines, gathered to mark the end of their school journey together, surrounded by the friends and teachers who have shaped it.

Sunday: Chapel, BBQ and Grovestonbury

Sunday began more reflectively, with a Chapel service bringing the whole community together to give thanks for the year and to send our leavers off with a blessing for the next chapter. A relaxed BBQ followed, giving families one last chance to catch up before the afternoon’s main event.

Grovestonbury, our Old Grovian Family Fun Day, brought current pupils, alumni and families together for an afternoon of music, food and nostalgia. It was also the setting for the launch of Giving Week, with Dan Nulty, Head of the Old Grovian Association, unveiling the Giving Week Gratitude Wall; a lovely, lasting way for our community to reflect on the impact of Woodhouse Grove and support the next generation of pupils through the bursary fund.

I Am Grovian, Always

Leavers’ Weekend is always a special moment in the school calendar, but this year’s blend of celebration, reflection and community spirit captured everything that makes Woodhouse Grove such a remarkable place to grow up. To our leavers: we are so proud of you, and we cannot wait to see where your journey takes you next.