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Commemoration 2016

Today, the whole school community came together to commemorate St Clement Danes' foundation, 154 years ago, in two events. In London, the main service took place at St Clement Danes Church in The Strand, with the orchestra and massed choirs, including the whole of Year 7, providing the music. With hold ups on the A40 causing a delayed start - Dr Valentine stepping foot off the first coach just as the church bells pealed for 11 o'clock - the Processional Cross was eventually carried up the aisle by Head Boy, Josh Walton to begin proceedings. The Acolyte torches were this year carried by Sasha Burrell and Casper Dancy. The service was led by the Reverend David Osborn and David Cansdale, QPM DL gave the address, whilst the congregation heard readings by Dr Valentine and Head Girl, Nina Turnbull. This year, the music had a distinctly Verdi-esque flavour as SCD gears up for next summer's Verdi Spectacular: the performance of his Requiem at the Watford Colosseum on July 8th. Both orchestra and choir sounded superb with a programme which definitely whetted the appetite for the concert. Guests included Old Danes, governors, trustees and former staff as well as colleagues from St Clement Danes Primary School, Drury Lane. One Old Dane revealed that he had been attending Commem for 38 years, truly living out the school's motto, Loyauté m'oblige. Back at school, Years 8, 9 and 10 held their own celebration, with notable student successes forming the theme. As ever, the students, whether performing or simply attending both events, were a credit to the school. Thanks are due to all the staff who work so hard every year to make this such a special day in the school's calendar.

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26th February

Celebrating our inclusion in National Top 200 Sporting schools list

We are proud to announce our inclusion in the prestigious list of the top 200 sporting schools in the country, achieving an impressive 62nd place ranking nationally. This recognition, recently highlighted by the Watford Observer, places the school among the elite educational institutions for sporting achievement in the United Kingdom. The "Top 200" list is compiled annually by School Sport Magazine, which utilises a rigorous methodology to determine the most successful schools across the nation. Unlike subjective polls, these rankings are based purely on performance in national competitions. The magazine analyses results across more than 20 different sports and over 120 different national competitions, awarding points based on how far a school progresses. Particular weight is given to reaching the final stages of prestigious national cups and championships, meaning the list serves as a direct reflection of a school’s competitive reach and its ability to succeed at the highest levels of school sport. Our climb to the 62nd spot this year is a direct result of several standout performances on the national stage across a variety of disciplines. Our Senior Girls reached the ESFA Football National Semi-Finals, showcasing incredible teamwork and skill against the best in the country. Our golfers also excelled on the national stage, finishing as National Finalists ranked number 9 in the country in the English Schools’ Team Championship. Additionally, the Inter Boys squad demonstrated exceptional talent and athleticism by qualifying for the National Track & Field Final, while the U16 Boys’ determination saw them progress deep into their season to reach the National Vase Regional Final. These milestones represent countless hours of training, immense dedication from both pupils and staff and a tenacious competitive spirit that defines the St Clement Danes community. While the school is incredibly proud of these elite achievements and our high standing in the national rankings, we recognise that these statistics only tell part of the story. Our core values are built on the belief sport extends far beyond the trophy cabinet or a leaderboard. Our focus remains firmly on participation as well as performance, ensuring our programme is inclusive, meaningful and accessible for all, not just those competing at the highest level.  Sport is for all, and whether a pupil is representing the school in a national final or discovering a lifelong passion for physical activity in a lunchtime club, our goal is to create a culture where every pupil feels empowered to stay active. We remain committed to providing a diverse range of opportunities that cater to all abilities, ensuring every pupil can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of sport.  Congratulations to all our pupil-athletes, coaches and supportive parents who have helped make this national recognition possible.