Ethan’s Story

“They Saw Something in Me.”

When Ethan delivered his Head Boy end-of-year speech, it was not just a farewell, but a powerful, heartfelt reflection on transformation, belonging and the kind of education that shapes lives.

“I came to Ballard with a bruised confidence and a decent amount of teenage awkwardness,” he began, candidly. “I had no idea what to expect. Would I get on well with anybody? Where would I fit in?”

But what he found was something different. “From the very beginning, I was welcomed with warmth, respect, and most importantly, a genuine sense of belonging. I owe a lot to you and this community for making me feel at home.” He realised that “Ballard wasn’t just any ordinary school – it was a place where people saw who you could be, even when you couldn’t quite see it yourself.” It is a sentiment echoed by many families who choose Ballard not just for its academic strength, but for its culture of care and encouragement.

Ballard School, Co-Educational School of the Year, is known for its balance of academic excellence, over 155 weekly co-curricular activities, and a proactive pastoral approach that ensures every child is seen and supported. But hearing it from a pupil’s perspective brings it to life.

“Opportunities that have not just shaped my experience here but also underlined the person who stands before you today.” Like every pupil, he was encouraged to get involved in all aspects of school life, “from football matches in the muddiest conditions possible, to applying for roles such as this very one!”

“Most memorable for me was stepping into the world of performing arts after persistent, and I stress the word persistent, encouragement from Mrs Gray to audition for Guys and Dolls.” At first, he said, “I thought she was joking. I mean, me? Singing? In public?” But “somehow, she saw something I hadn’t yet seen in myself, and I was awarded the lead role. Now if that doesn’t show that you could do anything, then I have no idea what does.”

More than that, “I got to be part of something magical.” Ballard, he said, “gave me the confidence not just to survive new experiences, but to thrive in them and to grow into the best version of myself along the way.”

“I will always remember that show. Not just for the lights and laughs, but for the friendships, the teamwork, the missed lines and even the crazy dance moves. Because that is Ballard at its best – creative, united, and a little bit chaotic.”

His speech was not just about personal growth. It was about community. “Ballard is a school that looks outwards,” he said. “We are not just about grades, performance or trophies, but instead we are about kindness, service, community. And doing what is right.”

And a huge congratulations to Ethan, who achieved top grades across all his GCSEs (9-7). He is now going to Barton Peverill to study Geography, Maths and Business. He has also now started singing lessons to continue performing arts, along with continuing with his piano and violin studies.