Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 1926-2022

Dear Staff and Students

Yesterday we received the very sad news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II. We express our condolences to the family in their period of mourning and can all reflect on how the death of a close family member makes us feel.

The DfE has confirmed that schools and colleges will stay open during the 10-day period of national mourning. To pay our respects, at Petroc we are flying our flags at half-mast and are marking our external communications with a black ribbon as a sign of respect. We will mark the state funeral in an appropriate way when further details of the arrangements are announced.

There are few of us who can remember a time when Elizabeth was not Queen. She has been an enduring presence for the whole of our lives. Our reaction to her death will be different for each of us, but many of us in our learning community of staff and learners at Petroc will be feeling a profound sense of grief and sadness. It is important that we support each other in what will be a difficult moment for many. As a College we are here for you with professional support to deal with the emotions you may be feeling.

The Queen saw momentous change across her lifetime, showed great strength of character and learned to adapt to many challenges throughout her long life. She showed great stoicism and strong sense of purpose that is an example to all of us. 

Our central purpose as a college is to support learning and this will remain our focus in these difficult times. We will be paying our respects, as a community, in an appropriate manner, and helping each other to face the future together.

Our thoughts are with her family in this difficult time.

Sean Mackney

Principal and CEO