I first joined the High in year ten, bursting with enthusiasm and ideas. I was there and ready to cause a commotion. I can’t say I’ve kept up this energy terribly well, what with the IB destroying any semblance of creativity I had left. You might think this is a terrible quality to (not) have as the Editor of a publication but my job has never been to have ideas, it has been to listen. The High has never been at a loss for creativity, every year we gain a new batch of year tens and elevens who are primed to start writing and expressing themselves. 

I have to give credit to the wonderful teachers and previous editors who’ve supported me and the entire team throughout my four years as a member of the High. Kwaish was my first ever editor and she seemed so much older and terrifying to fourteen year old me and yet, she listened, she made me feel heard, and I was given the space to fuel my ideas. 

After Kwaish came Tanvi. I have to credit Tanvi for my becoming the Editor in the first place. I had thought about trying out but decided I wasn’t going to get the job so I wasn’t going to bother. Tanvi took me aside unexpectedly and told me that I should go for it. As unsure as I was before, Tanvi’s confidence pushed me to try and I (obviously) got the role. 

After her came Pavi, the Editor when I was deputy. I found a good friend in Pavi, probably because we worked so closely together and I don’t think anyone could have prepared me better to take over as Editor. And now it’s Saoirse that I’ve tried to mentor and help navigate the strange world of publishing. I wish her all the best as she takes over and I cannot wait to see what she does with the place!

And how can I forget the wonderful teachers who’ve supported me through our many challenges. Ms Brennan was the first teacher I remember in the High. She left for a while but I was delighted to welcome her back for my final year, a lovely full circle moment I think. During Ms Brennan’s leave, Ms Pearcy took over. Sympathetic and clever, she was an incredibly fitting addition to the team. Of course, Mr Kirby was a constant presence throughout my time in the High, always there to help out with a pun for titles and to help me out of some sticky situations. I thank you all. 

Now, it may be my last edition but it is certainly not the last. I am certain this publication will thrive for many years to come. Now I pass you into the hands of our talented writers. We’ve affectionately titled this print the “Complaining issue” and we hope to satisfy in that department. 

Goodbye reader.