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Speech by Headmaster, David Cresswell, during Headmaster’s Assembly – 10th March 2025 

Last week, I was in New York City. 

It reminded me of two things: how big the world is – standing in the long queue at passport control surrounded by people from every corner of the globe – and how small it can be. Walking into my hotel, I bumped into a friend from London, staying in the very same place. 

Later that evening, I found myself in a New York taxi, and, as is often the case with taxi drivers, mine had strong opinions. 

 “So, what do you Brits think of the Trump-Zelenskyy meeting?” 

Suddenly, I was being asked to speak for Britain on the latest White House controversy, and I felt rather put on the spot. The truth was, I had no idea what had happened – I had been mid-air over the Atlantic when it took place. 

So, when I arrived at my hotel, I watched the Oval Office exchange. 

It was important to me to understand what had transpired between President Trump and President Zelenskyy. 

For those of you who haven’t caught up, reports from reputable sources such as The Economist and The New York Times describe a meeting intended to finalise an economic agreement – granting the U.S. mining rights in Ukraine and securing a ceasefire with Russia. But it quickly turned tense. Zelenskyy was perceived as being too confrontational; Trump, focused on deal-making, was dismissive. 

This incident underscores something important: international diplomacy isn’t simple. It’s rarely a case of right versus wrong – it’s about leverage, power, and perception. 

But I have to say – I was shocked. 

I’m not naïve. I understand that global politics is rarely fair or just. But even knowing that, I hadn’t expected the treatment Zelenskyy received. 

And frankly, the debate over whether he should have worn a suit is missing the point. If you invite someone into your home, your job as the host is to make them feel welcome. Respect should not be conditional on what someone is wearing. 

What frustrated me most, though, was not just the event itself, but the way people talked about it. It was all sound bites – quick, oversimplified judgments. But the world isn’t simple. It’s nuanced, complex. 

Now, let me be clear: this is not about taking a political stance. But there are some fundamental lessons here: 

 1. Taking advantage of someone in a weaker position is bullying. 

 2. Dismissing someone’s voice, talking over them, and not listening – that’s not OK. 

Which brings me to a question: Would the world be different if there were more women in leadership? 

It’s worth considering, especially as we marked International Women’s Day just last week. One leader I have long admired is Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand. 

During the Covid-19 crisis, her leadership was defined by empathy, clarity, and an ability to listen – qualities that often get dismissed in traditional power structures. She communicated openly, treated people with respect, and focused on bringing people together rather than tearing them down. 

This isn’t about saying women automatically make better leaders than men – it’s about recognising that different leadership styles shape the world in different ways. And in a time of global instability, we should be asking ourselves: what kind of leadership do we need? 

We are living through a time of significant change – a shift in the world order. 

And that’s why your teachers and I believe it’s so important for you to engage with current affairs. The world you are stepping into will not always be safe or fair – but knowledge equips you to navigate its challenges responsibly. 

And that means thinking critically about where you get your information. 

Notice how I gave you my sources earlier? In a world where misinformation spreads quickly, relying on reputable news outlets is essential. The ability to question, fact-check, and understand nuance will set you apart. 

So, here’s my challenge to you: 

This week, take time to study a leader you admire. It could be a politician, a campaigner, or someone closer to home – a coach, a teacher, a family member. 

Ask yourself: 

 • What makes them a good leader? 

 • How do they treat those in a weaker position? 

 • Do they listen? Do they bring people together? 

Because the world is big – but also small. What happens in New York, in Kyiv, in London – these things connect us all. And the kind of leadership we choose to value will shape the future you inherit.