Brentwood School - Brentwoodian 2020

11 After my year officially finished, it was announced that pupils could go back to school; however, we had finished our year. But as many people were leaving at the end of the year, they arranged for our year group to say goodbye on the last day. I thought this was very considerate of the School under the circumstances; I was exhilarated that I would be able to say goodbye to my friends. It was tough leaving as we weren’t able to have any proper goodbyes or have any celebrations. I was lucky enough to be able to see my friends before I left; however, it was an emotional time for many. I am very grateful for my last few months in Hong Kong, and although they may not have been as I expected, I was able to enjoy this period of chaos. It was a tearful goodbye as I waved to my best friend as I left through airport security. It was stressful as we had to be very cautious on the flight, wearing masks and face coverings. As I arrived in England, I dreaded the announcement of my results and my anxiety built up. As everyone opened their results, I was curious as to why I had not received mine, and this was as they decided to give me my results altogether. So as everyone in my year opened their results, I waited, waited and waited for mine. I was nervous about opening my results as everyone had already received theirs and had complaints. To my pleasant surprise, I was proud of my results with a few I disagreed with, but overall a great outcome. This past year has been one to remember with hardships for many; my overall knowledge from this experience has been to make sure you keep up-to-date with your learning but also to live in the moment as you don’t know when things might change. Not only has it changed my educational experience as I have become more grateful for being able to go into school and having face-to-face interactions. It has also allowed me to reflect on my learning and new tips to bring into my IB years. It has been different, but I am happy for my safe and healthy family but also the lessons I have learnt from my experiences. By Tatum Sadler