As the Autumn Term draws to a close, we find ourselves bidding a heartfelt farewell to a dedicated and inspiring member of our community. Mrs Massam, Head of Girls' Games at Lady Barn, is set to embark on a new chapter, leaving behind a legacy that has undeniably shaped the landscape of girls' sports within our school walls.

Throughout her tenure, Mrs Massam has been a beacon of passion and leadership, guiding our girls through triumphs and challenges alike. Join us as we delve into Mrs Massam's reflections on her most cherished moments, the motivation driving her commitment to girls' sports and education.

What are some of your most memorable moments or achievements during your tenure as the Head of Girls' Games?

It would be hard to pick out my most memorable moment because there are just too many to choose from. All the fixtures, sports tours, Cup Cake tournaments, working alongside superb sports teachers, swimming galas, gymnastic competitions... it is endless. And that is what has made Lady Barn so special! There is such a wide variety of sports going on, and our children jump at these opportunities with boundless energy!

Can you share a particular success story or proud moment related to the girls' sports teams that stands out to you?

There is not one moment that shines above the rest because this school is great at celebrating all successes, no matter how big or small. Our sports department has an inclusive approach that feeds the desire of our pupils as they develop a love for sport. On top of this sound foundation of ‘sport for all,’ we have developed a successful pathway for gifted and talented pupils, to nurture and build on their passion and potential.

Are there any specific relationships or interactions with pupils, staff, or parents that have had a significant impact on you during your time at the school?

Working alongside Miss Cardwell, England netball player, was one of the highlights of my time at Lady Barn. To learn from a player and coach who has reached the highest level in their sport has been something that I will always cherish. She is an inspiration to both the pupils and to me.

How do you believe participating in sports has positively influenced the pupils you've worked with?

Sport plays a major part in children’s development, from Nursery through to Prep 6. Working with the Early Years on their physical development gives them the building blocks for the rest of their learning in life. There is a great quote about a baby’s development that stays with me - “The more they move, the more they learn. The more they learn, the more they want to know. The more they want to know, the more they want to move.” Instilling a desire to be active at this crucial stage is just the beginning.

When the children move into the Juniors, these building blocks really come into play, and I see them benefiting from the foundation laid in the earlier years. I watch their love for physical activity turn into a passion for specific sports, and that is exciting! Participating in games has a major impact on our children; developing their confidence, resilience, social and cognitive skills, courage, patience, strength, respect, innovation, aspiration…I could go on! These are qualities that I love to see the children develop when they get out there and pass a ball around.

As you move on, what are your hopes for the future of girls' sports at LBHS?

Broadening girls’ games opportunities to include some boys’ activities has been important to me. Girls now get to enjoy football and cricket alongside their traditional sports of hockey, netball, and rounders. This has been achieved without losing the special environment within Girls’ Games, where girls are given the opportunity to shine in so many ways – something I hope will be a legacy that remains as I move on.