As term ended on a typical winters day in December at Badminton School my thoughts turned to sunnier climes. Along with Head Mrs Rebecca Tear and School Governor Mrs Amanda Webb, for the first time ever, our contingent from Badminton was setting off for Nigeria, to meet current parents, Alumnae, former parents and propsective parents.
The trip had been meticulously planned as on good advice, it was apparent that security and travel arrangements must be in place, and a full itinerary awaited our short stay.
Thanks to Virgin we arrived safely in the early hours of the morning, and after an illuminating journey from the airport the business of the day commenced with a visit to Lagos Preparatory School, where we were able to meet with some of the students considering a UK education.
We had a fantastic evening hosting current parents, former parents and many of our OBA's-Old Badmintonian Association, our special Alumnae. We were delighted to share news of our Thrive@Badminton Campaign with the initial first phase underway of building a brand new sports centre where we seek £750,000 of public funding.
Day two and it was off to St Saviours School, Ikoyi, on the last day of their term. The Christmas music rang out from the speakers, rather surreal in 30 degree heat to hear "I'm dreaming of a white Christmas..." something I think that Nigeria will never experience.
The afternoon was spent interviewing some lovely girls keen to join us in Sixth Form in 2018.
That evening-our final evening we hosted more prospective parents, and were joined by some of our current students to share their experience of life at Badminton School.
Day three and we set off for home, leaving the warmth of Nigeria, not just from the weather but also from the welcome, and the smiles from all that we met.
Until the next time....