School leaders from St John Payne Catholic School in Chelmsford were recently invited to Buckingham Palace to celebrate their achievements at the King's Garden Party. Headteacher Tom Coen and deputy headteacher Cat Squires attended the prestigious event after being nominated for their services to Catholic education and safeguarding.
Recognition for Global Changemaker Work
Mr Coen explained that the Lord Lieutenant of Essex, Jennifer Tolhurst, put them forward for the invitation. He noted that a couple of years ago, they went to the Houses of Parliament to receive ONE's Global Changemaker Award, which celebrates the role the public plays in making the UK a force for good in the world. This recognition stemmed from their work with the local authority to welcome students who had relocated from Afghanistan. "It is work like that that has got us noticed," Mr Coen said.
A Royal Occasion
Hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla, along with The Princess Royal and The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the garden party brought together guests from diverse backgrounds. The pair enjoyed wandering the grounds, viewing the lakes, and listening to a military band perform.
Mr Coen described the experience as an honour. "There were huge crowds outside Buckingham Palace, and there were lots of security and police in attendance. Once inside, there were many dignitaries; everyone in fascinators and hats! It was a really celebratory and pride-filled occasion." He added that they were within arm's reach of the Royals at times, who remained on their feet for nearly three hours. "What was apparent was how they very clearly are well-versed in being interested in making people feel that they are interested and engaged. They came across as very personable and ordinary people. Yes, they hold huge responsibilities, but they are just like us."
Conversations and Connections
The leaders had many lovely conversations with people from around the country, including individuals from the church, a rabbi from the Jewish community, and a mother with her young son in RAF uniform. "We heard such various stories. It was a really good day," Mr Coen reflected.
A Collective Achievement
While Mr Coen and Ms Squires were the ones invited, they emphasised that they consider themselves figureheads for the entire school. "It is a collective effort with regard to our approach to young people. We have told our children and parents all about it, and they have been really heartened to think the school has been recognised in this way. This was a really nice recognition for the whole school. It brought home how much this school means to people," Mr Coen concluded.
