The River Thames outside DLD College London

From The Principal #146

6th May 22

29 April 2022

Welcome back to the start of the new summer term – a term traditionally when courses culminate in the taking of public exams, summer sports, art exhibitions, music concerts and when the sun is supposed to shine – and unfortunately, it isn’t. It’s good to be back at school and to get back into the swing of things after the Easter holidays, and although the school is now in summer mode, the weather certainly doesn’t reflect that, and it is forecast to get slightly colder.

It was fantastic to announce the new Student Council members during our whole College assembly on Monday afternoon, and the energy and enthusiasm from our students continue to impress. With the previous Student Council members working on next week’s Summer Ball in Westminster and Graduation Ceremony at the Houses of Parliament in June, there is plenty to focus on beyond the assessments and exams which are currently taking place.

Staying on TRACK (Tolerance, Respect, Academic Curiosity, Community & Kindness) continues to be our drive this term, with preparation for public exams (GCSEs, A-levels, BTECs and IFP) fully underway. Our students should continue to remain fully engaged and focused during this critical time. The pace and intensity have been relentless since we got back (including on the basketball court!), and I have been thoroughly impressed with our students’ work ethic, independence of thought, and positive attitude in and around College and in the boarding house. I commend them for their excellent attitude and sterling efforts, and I wish them all the best – I know they will do us all proud.

Next week, we will discover whether the College has been successful in this year’s BSA’s ‘Supporting Excellence’ Awards. We are already immensely proud to be finalists in two international categories – ‘Inclusion & Diversity’ and ‘Supporting International Boarders’ – very relevant categories with the variety of challenges that this past couple of years have presented. We will find out the winner on the 4th of May – watch this space!

This weekend, Eid celebrations take place, marking the end of Ramadan. And for those members of our community who are celebrating this weekend, I hope that you have a wonderful time and, for everyone, a restful and, hopefully, sunny week ahead!

Best wishes,

Irfan Latif

Principal