Transforming Futures: students reflect on their More House journey
Every year, as another cohort of More House students prepares to take their next steps, the Head Boy, Heads of House and Chairs of the School Council reflect on their journeys at our annual Founder’s Day celebration. Their speeches are a powerful reminder of the growth and determination of More House pupils, and the importance of finding one’s place in the world.
This summer's valedictory addresses were no exception. With honesty and humour, each young man shared stories of challenge and achievement. They spoke of neurodiversity not as a limitation to their social and academic progress, but as an integral part of their identity. They expressed what it means to be supported and challenged to become the best version of themselves in a school that understands and nurtures differences.
“Whether it was a chaotic trip or an intense exam season, the teachers were always there for us. Their support, patience and exceptional teaching really helped make all the difference… But what really made this school special was the people and the community. We came in as kids, and we’re now leaving as slightly older, slightly wiser (and definitely better-fed) kids. I think that’s how you know that this is the perfect place to be.”
Their words, which often bring tears of joy to parents, families and friends in the audience, surely resonated deeply with their peers and younger students seated before them. For those still on their journey, these speeches were a source of inspiration and proof that progress looks different for everyone, but is always possible.
“To the youngest of us in front of me, whether it may or may not feel like it now, trust me when I say your purpose will be found. Never stop questioning the world we live in - because you’re here at this incredible school with the best opportunity you’ll have to be yourself.”
The young men leaving our school confident and ready to take on the world are the most powerful reminder of the More House mission: to empower our students to transform their futures. Their reflections showed remarkable maturity and confidence, and a deep sense of pride, not just in the grades they have earned, but in friendships forged, talents uncovered, and self-belief developed.
"More House is so much more than an academic experience - this community encourages us to be comfortable in who we are in a world that often doesn’t make sense. We’re taught to value our eye, and to embrace our individual journeys towards all those big ideas, regardless of how unique they can be. For me, I have learned about living life on my own terms, and to embrace my way of thinking, something that will stay with me forever. What a gift.”
We are so proud of them and confident that they will make their mark in a world that is wide and complex, yet full of possibility and continues to embrace neurodiversity with understanding, inclusion and respect.
Congratulations to the graduating class of 2025!
We wish you every success and happiness.
A few more reflections from the graduating class of 2024:
"Before I joined More House School, I barely spoke. After some time here, with help from the LDC Department, I began to speak. One evening at home, I sat down at the table and said, “Let’s have a conversation.” From that day forward, I slowly became more confident in speaking to people. Now, look at me up here speaking to you. I have come a very long way since my first day at More House."
"What I love about this school is that we are all unique in our own ways and we can all go on to do amazing things because of this."
"At my previous school I was diagnosed with Developmental Language Disorder. I felt like I was the only person with this issue. I would stare out of the window and gradually disappear into my own world. So, when I first started at More House, I was very shy and lacked self-confidence, and my speech and language disorder affected me a lot when communicating with others. But looking back now, More House has completely transformed me. All the support they have given me has got me to this moment standing up here with a team of amazing friends representing the school as Head Boys!"
"You are so lucky to be here, you are so lucky to have the opportunities here, you are so lucky to have the support of the whole community here. You are who you make yourself."
"This school has changed my life in so many ways. I had moved from school to school and never found a perfect fit until I arrived at More House which felt like home! On my first day I was very shy and nervous, but now almost 9 years later I can’t keep my mouth shut, and I am standing up here in front of you today delivering a speech! I couldn’t imagine this happening."
"This school has given me so many different opportunities – I have acted and sung on stage and held positions of responsibility including showing prospective parents around the school… I have learnt to sing and play the trombone and gained experience in sport which has allowed me to join teams outside of school and work on my leadership skills, which will benefit me and my sporting performance. I am leaving here today with friends for life."
"I would like to thank More House for allowing me to embrace the crazy in me and I hope to change the world!"
