Foundation Day 2023 was particularly special; it was Jane Sanchez's last as Head, we welcomed back legendary musician Jamie Hartman (McClure 1984-89) as our Guest of Honour and Lord Glendonbrook (School, 1955-57) to award his newly donated prize.

The Chapel was filled with music as the wonderful Gareth Hanson, recently appointed Director of Musical Performance, conducted the Chapel Choir. The Choir sung beautifully, performing works such as Stanford's 'Te Deum Laudamus', the original Latin text of which adorns our Chapel's ceiling. Reverend Venn-Dunn's sermon about the 'Good Samaritan' and how we as members of the Mill Hill community should strive to take care of one another was a poignant moment of reflection, during an otherwise busy day. 

Music truly was the apt theme of the day, as the musical performances continued well into the Prize-Giving cermony. Chair of the Court of Governors, Elliot Lipton's speech, reflecting about Jane's time as Head here at Mill Hill, was particularly touching. Following on from Elliot, Jane's review of the year was punctuated with two wonderful musical perfomances, first a trio of lead vocalists performed "Girl on Fire", followed by the catchy "Mill Hill Collective" who got the whole Hall clapping and tapping along to their Jazz.

Following this musical interlude, the prize-giving began, which included the amazing new addition, "The Glendonbrook Prize" which is awarded to Sixth Former who had showing transformational progress over course of their Sixth Form experience.

Having handed out the prizes, Jamie also gave an incredible rendition of his song, "Human", made famous by the artist Rag'n'Bone Man, during his speech, much to the delight of the audience. Concluding his performance, Jamie surprised the audience by awarding the guitar he had just performed with, to the pupil identified to him as "the Best All-Round Musician", 2023 Leaver Alex C, who was blown away by his generosity. Jamie's amusing reflections on his school days entertained everyone - particularly his stories of his former teachers, including OMC President Chris Kelly who was sat in the front row! His words of wisdom were inspiring for both pupils and parents alike. 

Whilst the girls 1st XI match got underway on the Astros, lunch was served on Top Terrace. Finally, the day ended with even more music, as the CCF Corps of Drums completed two presentations on Top Field - including welcoming the players for the 1st XV Team onto the field for their match. 

It truly was a day filled with music, laughter and new memories with old friends.