Yet another year passes here at The Forest School, and this year I have the privilege of taking on the role of Head Student. Forest, for many, is a place for students to learn, grow, make unbreakable bonds and unforgettable memories, and most importantly - excel. This is why it is such a pleasure that I have the honour of welcoming you.

What stands out the most to me about this school, is the almost family-like sense of community. No matter who you are, as soon as you walk through those gates for the first time in Year 7, you’re a part of something truly special. You’re a part of the Forest Family. There are hundreds of staff, students, and others here that are all cheering you on, keeping you going when things get tough, and want nothing but the best out of you; we believe that everyone here at Forest can unlock their true potential.

I joined Forest at an interesting time - come the end of Year 6, the COVID pandemic was still in full effect, though we were allowed back at school at the very least. We all tried our hardest to get through the months and months stuck inside, but truthfully, it had a huge impact on millions of students worldwide, including myself and those in my year group. However, with the care, support, and smooth transition period, it would be easy to forget that there was ever a problem at all. I also joined during the first year of co-ed here at Forest, and back then roughly 10% of the students in our year of Year 7s were girls. This year, that number is closer to 50% in the newly arrived Year 7s, showing just how quickly the school has grown and adapted. Any worry that a student has about secondary school - whether that’s leaving friends behind, getting lost, or having to familiarise yourself with so many new faces; I can ensure that those worries will be all but forgotten about within your first few weeks.

Another thing that stands out to me is the incredible facilities we have at this school. That includes some of the best science labs in the country, the BEC building, in which we have several high-quality computer labs, the brand new All-Weather sports pitch, and the countless walls covered in educational yet incredible murals. But year on year, more and more buildings are being refurbished, more and more opportunities are being created, and this school continues to offer a better and better experience for all of those in it.

Unfortunately, this will be my last year at Forest, and what an amazing journey it has been. I have no doubt that this school will continue to grow exponentially, and I look forward to hearing of its progress in the future. If there is one piece of advice I could give to any student, it would be to really cherish the memories you make here; nowhere else could repeat the experience you get here at Forest.

Isaac Thomas
Head student