Headmaster of Aylesbury Grammar School, Mr Mark Sturgeon, speaks exclusively to the Bucks Free Press.

“It is at times of great challenge [the pandemic] that we fall back on the characteristics and values that make us who we are.

"Over the last 18 months, we have had to look at the key characteristics of respect and aspire, of ownership, motivation, resilience, innovation, and courage, in order that we navigate the difficult times.

The art rooms at AGS

The art rooms at AGS (These are not yet completed)

“The reality of the last 18 months has been one of reflection, admiration for the AGS community, and cohesion that makes our school such a unique and wonderful place to learn.

"We are humbled and appreciative of the entire community.

“From the dawn of a return to school following the lockdown of 2020, with restrictions and control measures to keep us safe, we witnessed a second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic and its impact on school education and the examination systems that provide so many opportunities for our students.

The art rooms at AGS (These are not yet completed)

The art rooms at AGS (These are not yet completed)

“Undeterred by the continual disruption and negative impact of Covid-19, we set a clear path for all of our community to thrive under whatever circumstances we found ourselves.

“We have maximised the learning and achievement of students and have continued to evolve the school and achieve some wonderful feats from sporting success, amazing music, drama and art, research and academic success and collaboration on both a local and international scale – the school continues to move forward with exceptional verve and energy.”

The future looks bright for the AGS

The future looks bright for the AGS

Infrastructure developments at the school have continued apace, the new entrance project to enhance safeguarding and safety in school is now complete.

During the summer months, a new roof was installed on the Foundation Hall and the total refurbishment of Art/DT and Engineering was completed.