05 Jul 2021
by Jaikuran Randhawa

Ditcham Park School students say goodbye at Leavers' Prom

The Class of 2021 gathered in chiffon and sequins, suits and tuxedos for their Leavers’ Prom on Friday 25 June on one of their last visits to Ditcham Park School. The School lawns were bathed in sunshine as parents enjoyed a glass of Raimes English Sparkling Wine while everyone watched the arrival of the Form 5 Leavers in everything from a tractor-trailer, complete with live band, to a quirky campervan and a vintage Rolls Royce. It was a perfect evening for a glamorous and long-awaited opportunity to celebrate. Hebe P, Head Girl, said: “All of Form 5 had an amazing time in our marquee overlooking the wonderful views of the South Downs. From the unique modes of transportation to the holiday-location-themed tables to the embarrassing memories read out by the Head of Seniors, everyone had a great time! “The photo booth made for some hilarious photos and the music went on late into the night. After the previous year not having a Prom, I’m sure I can say for all of us that we are very grateful to everyone who helped make this Prom a memorable one, including parents, the estates and catering team and teachers. It was the perfect way to end our time at Ditcham!” Ollie M, Head Boy, added: “Our Prom was a wonderful experience and opportunity to say goodbye to friends and staff before we leave this unforgettable part of our lives. Eating a very well-prepared meal by Chef Neil and his team, we got to reminisce with the teachers and classmates on our table about the embarrassing and indelible memories we’d collected over the years! Towards the end of the night it was good to hear speeches from the Headmaster and Head of Seniors closing our time at Ditcham with some meaningful and funny anecdotes. “The Prom was a great end to my time at Ditcham and reinforces just why I am going to miss it,” added Ollie. The theme of the 2021 Prom was Summer Fun. Lucy Reidy and Sam Wade, parent organisers, described the decorations: ‘We hung festoon lighting and festive bunting inside the marquee and pom-pom globes dangled from the tent ceiling. Colourful tablecloths, party favours and table centrepieces contributed to the party atmosphere. “Leavers enjoyed a photo booth, sweet stall and disco after an excellent formal dinner. Indeed, the catering staff were delighted to receive a standing ovation by students and teachers. We’d especially like to thank the catering and estate teams for their hard work – as well as the Friends of Ditcham Park School for their support in making a memorable evening.” Graham Spawforth, Headmaster, said: “After the disappointment of having to cancel the event last year we were determined to make it happen this year, albeit in a suitably risk assessed way. “The Prom was possible due to our fully ventilated marquee, in-house catering and measures to achieve social distancing and I truly hope the evening was a wonderful and memorable finale to Form 5’s years at Ditcham." https://www.ditchampark.com/