Berkhamsted pays tribute to Our Patron, Her Majesty The Queen

The governors, staff, pupils and parents of the Berkhamsted Schools Group were deeply saddened to hear the news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We send our condolences to her family, and those who worked with her. We recognise that her death leaves a gap in our national life, but we feel first for those who have lost a mother, grandmother, or family member. We join those in the UK and across the world who will want to pay tribute to Her Majesty’s extraordinary life.  

In 2016, we were fortunate to receive a visit from Her Majesty, in her role as Patron of the School. All those involved were struck at her evident interest in those around her, her lively sense of humour and her care for the thriving and wellbeing of young people. Both during the visit and from her public life, we saw Her Majesty the Queen live out a life which was entirely in line with our values – to aim high with integrity, be adventurous and serve others. The entire school community can count itself fortunate to have been ruled and served by a monarch whose example of courage, integrity, service and kindness was evident to all.  

Our schools will mark the passing of Her Majesty with assemblies dedicated to reminding the pupils of her long life, her outstanding example, and her leadership. In our Chapel services in the coming week, we will pray for Her Majesty, for her family, her households and her friends, recognising the Christian faith which marked her Christmas addresses. We will mark her life with the planting of an English Oak within our grounds, which we trust will stand for centuries as a reminder of her life, her contribution to our country, and her example as a human being.