Welcome from the Headmaster

It is a great privilege to be Headmaster of Stonar, and particularly special now that my three children are Stonarians too. 

Like any parent, I want my children to be happy at school. I want them to be known and cared for, to have great friends and wonderful experiences, and to look forward to coming to learn each morning. I also want them to be challenged however. I want them to work hard, discover what they are capable of, develop resilience and leave school prepared as well as excited about whatever comes next. 

I don't think, as parents, we should have to choose between challenge and happiness. 

At Stonar, we capture this belief in three simple words: Achieve with joy. 

We are ambitious for our pupils, and achievement matters to us. Of course, that includes academic results, but it means much more besides. Success is different for every young person. It might be outstanding examination results, a performance on stage, success on the sports field or in equestrian, mastering a new skill or overcoming something that once seemed impossible. Sometimes, achievement begins simply with finding the confidence to have a go and explore their potential. 

Nobody achieves entirely on their own. Young people need to be known, encouraged and supported by people who believe in what they can become. This is why the concept of Stonar educators is so important to me. Our teachers are educators, but so too are the many people across Stonar who coach, mentor, listen, care and create opportunities for our pupils every day. Whatever our role in the School, we all play a part in helping young people to grow, fulfil their potential and become the best version of themselves. 

In more than 25 years in education, I have seen first-hand that young people achieve more when they feel secure in themselves, know that they are valued and enjoy school life. Joy is not about making life easy or avoiding difficulties. Young people need to be challenged and inspired. They need to learn from mistakes, develop resilience and understand that worthwhile achievements usually require effort and perseverance. We are, after all, preparing them not simply for the next stage of their education, but for life beyond Stonar. 

Parents are an important part of that journey too. I have always believed that the best education comes through genuine partnership between school and home. As young people grow, they must also take increasing responsibility for their choices, their contribution to the community and the person they want to become. Education is ultimately something we do together, but its purpose is to give young people the confidence and independence to make their own way in life. 

Our values express that purpose rather well: Work hard. Be kind. Get involved. Shape the world. 

They are deliberately straightforward, but they are also demanding. We want Stonarians to make the most of their abilities and understand the value of effort; to be thoughtful and compassionate in the way they treat others; and to get involved, because some of the most important learning happens when we step forward, participate and try something new. Ultimately, we want them to leave Stonar ready to shape their own lives and make a positive difference in the lives of others. 

That, to me, is lifelong learning. It is also what it means to Achieve with joy. 

Of course, you cannot understand a school fully from a website. You need to walk around it, meet our people and, most importantly, talk to our pupils. I hope you will come and visit us, experience Stonar for yourself and discover a school that is warm and caring, but also energetic, ambitious and full of opportunity. 

I very much look forward to welcoming you. 

Aaron J. G. King 
Headmaster