My dear King’s,

Where do I start? How do I say goodbye to something that’s given me so much?

We’ve come a long way since September. Bringing back The Watch started as just a few friends with a vision. A vision of a magazine by students that really was for students. We had no clue how far we could take this thing, and it’s gone far beyond what I could have ever imagined. 

We couldn’t have done it without you, dear reader. What we’ve made this year is for you. It’s because of you. Your dedication, patience, grace and love are what got us here. Without the readers, The Watch would mean nothing. 

I’ve poured my heart and soul into this magazine. And I know the rest of my team has, too. I’ve given you everything I had. The Watch has become my whole world. But now it’s time to step aside and make room for new leadership. I hope that our work this year has paved the way for our new executive to flourish. And I can’t wait to watch it happen. 

As I step down from my position and say goodbye to The Watch with this final issue, I know this is also my goodbye to King’s. Four years in this school doesn’t feel like enough. There’s a part of me that will stay here forever. Forever in these hallways and classrooms with my friends, who have become more like family. 

Now, in my last few days of school, I’ve finally learned how to soak it all in. You never really know what you have until it’s over. But I know I can always look back on my time with this magazine and be proud of the work we’ve done. From here on out, whenever I pick up a copy of The Watch, I will be transported right back to fourth year. Our memories are immortalized here forever. 

To Olivia, Ella, Eamon and Gabby. This year, I’ve had the pleasure of watching you grow into outstanding journalists, people and friends. As we all step down to follow new paths, take comfort in knowing we will always have these moments.

To our incoming exec, Emma, Clara, Emily, Sally, Marlo, Mira, Maggie and Ainslie, I leave you this in full confidence. I know I will watch you all do amazing things. 

To my team and to our readers, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you. Thank you for placing your trust in me. Leading this team has been the honour of my life. I genuinely believe this issue is our magnum opus. So, one last time, please enjoy our March issue. 

Your editor-in-chief,

Maria Collins