After months of preparation and anticipation, it was – despite the pandemic – a complete joy to welcome South College’s first freshers to their new home and community. The Pioneer Scholars worked with formidable energy, dedication and commitment to welcome the new arrivals and their parents.

It was the week in which we encountered the reality of life during a pandemic. Though we hope neither of them will prove to have Covid-19, two Pioneer Scholars reported symptoms - and I thank them sincerely for their diligence and candour. Self-isolation for a complete household ensued. Again, I thank those isolating for their patience, solidarity and excellent sense.

Lee, Lynn, Steven and I had been in our offices for a week and tremendously well supported by our wonderful receptionists, Polly and Poppy and by Bill Close and the superb South College Porters and cleaners. It was a delight simply to be here and to meet such excellent new colleagues.