Head Girl and Deputy Head Girl Shadan Danesh and Nora Rechel share their thoughts on his impact:

“Mr Bull is a teacher who all the students really trust, who we can talk openly with without feeling judged or self conscious.

“During the lockdowns when Black Lives Matter gained awareness, Mr Bull helped to set up an Antiracism, Diversity and Inclusion Group creating a space to talk. The Group hosted, with Mr Bull’s encouragement, the school’s first Culture Day in February 2022. Culture Day was brilliant – Mr Bull encouraged us to lead the planning and bring our ideas together. Students shared their backgrounds and experienced each other’s culture through food, dress, henna and music. We feel unique in having the opportunity to show who we are, feeling comfortable at school and celebrating our individuality.

“Mr Bull has helped the LGBTQ+ Alliance – attending meetings, organising assemblies and encouragement to launch a newsletter. Mr Bull’s reassurance made members of the Alliance feel more confident talking openly.

“Mr Bull brought together students interested in eco issues forming the Climate Crew. They held Eco Week in April 2022, with activities chosen by students including planting, eco bricks and an assembly on interaction between climate change and racism. Many eco ideas have been implemented including switching from plastic water cups to paper cones in the dining hall.

“Mr Bull produces, including pupil content, a comprehensive monthly Inclusion, Diversity and Antiracism bulletin shared with students and staff covering a theme, dates of interest and details of forthcoming meetings.

“Mr Bull encompasses how we now approach diversity and inclusion. It is not about Pride Month or Black History Month but we talk about issues that matter to us any time. When we have anxiety and worry about the future, Mr Bull’s presence is enough to make that go away. He fights apathy and inspires students and staff to do more and keep learning.”

Alison Sefton, Head of Norwich High School for Girls added: “We follow the GDST’s Undivided Charter for Action in our commitment to diversity, inclusion and real change. What Mr Bull has accomplished is bringing that to life, giving students the platforms for their ideas, views and helping put these into action. Thanks to his work, we have created a new position – Diversity and Inclusion Lead, and Mr Bull will be taking up this position from September. That he has achieved so much already is testament to his approachability and compassion.”

Dr Helen Wright, Chair of Independent Schools of the Year 2022 commented: “The response we have had to Independent School Parent magazine’s Independent Schools of the Year has again been fantastic this year, with hundreds of schools from across the country submitting entries in all 22 awards categories. It has been truly wonderful to receive nominations which showcase transformative and innovative projects that are underway across the country, and it is with great pleasure that I am able to announce that Norwich High School for Girls GDST has been shortlisted for an award in the Unsung Hero of the Year category.”

A list of Finalists will be published on 7 September and the winners, chosen by the Independent Schools of the Year judging panel, will be announced at an awards ceremony in October.