Just before the end of term, our very own Ambassadors of Change students from Years 7, 8 and 10 at The Bicester School met the High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, Mr John May, on a very hot and humid morning. Mr May arrived in his full ceremonial dress of velvet jacket, breeches and ceremonial sword, alongside his Chamberlain and Shrieval Coordinator, Mr Mark Johnson. Mr May’s focus for his year of appointment is ‘Hearing the Young Unheard’ and our aim was to showcase the amazing work being done by our Ambassadors of Change.
After a formal welcome by Evie S, Mr May was introduced to the Ambassadors of Change and watched a presentation by Year 10 students about their plans for the next academic year and the events they hope to run within school and beyond.
The Years 7 and 8 students then talked in more details about their roles and participation in the Town and Gown run in Oxford, the TBS Mile, the Christmas Market for Key Stage 3 students, PE presentation Evening and the Swimathon event held this year.
After questions from Mr May we then moved into a more informal setting over cake and drinks. The catering team had provided two amazing cakes (both involving chocolate and one with an Oreo focus and one bedecked with strawberries!) which proved very popular. Mr May suggested slicing the cakes with the sword and Ellie A duly did the honours for us. During this time students could ask Mr May about his role, how he was appointed, his uniform and many other questions. Harshpreet was able to try the coat on having asked how warm was it to wear during the heatwave. The conclusion was it was very warm!
After the cake, Mr May than asked the students his four questions that he is focusing on this year: How do we make Oxfordshire a fairer space; a greener space; a more connected space; a healthier space? The students came up with a myriad of ideas including planting trees and creating living roofs for bus stops, campaigning for better street lighting, supporting cycle safety, and setting up more accessible ramps and paths, uniform swops and creating more community spaces to bring people together.
The morning was very insightful, engaging and a very positive experience. We are very grateful to Mr May for visiting us as we know how busy his schedule is. Evie S formally closed the morning’s proceedings with a vote of thanks and Peyton and Scarlett presented Mr May with a card and flowers.
Mr May said: I’m deeply grateful to everyone at The Bicester School for such a generous and inspiring morning – especially the Ambassadors themselves. They reminded me, once again, why it’s so vital that we listen to the young unheard. They don’t just have potential. They have purpose. And they’re already leading the way.
Harshpreet tries on ‘the’ coat
Archie H and the Sheriff
Peyton, Scarlett and the Sheriff
