Last Friday, we celebrated our seventh Founder’s Day with great emotion—a day dedicated to honouring the life and legacy of our beloved founder, Mrs Linda Randell. A pioneering and visionary woman who, in 1969, championed international education in El Puerto de Santa María at a time when the concept was still unknown in the city.
The day began with a whole-school assembly in our cherished Hall, led by Mr and Mrs Randell and our Head Boy and Head Girl, bringing together all Junior and Senior pupils. It was a moment to reflect on the school’s founding values, Mrs Randell’s passion for the arts, entrepreneurship, and education as a force for change. During the assembly, our LMR Award winners also gave presentations — Leire and Pablo (LMR Scholarship winners), Alberto and Pepe (Travel Scholarship winners) and Leire and Carmen (Community Award winners) – congratulations to them all!
Our Vice Prefects and Committee Leaders also shared inspiring messages with the entire community. The winners of various competitions were announced: our Calendar Competition (which will be available to buy in the school shop with proceeds going to charity!), the Mrs. Randell Portrait Competition and the Year 9 poetry competition. The dining hall served a special menu in honour of Mrs Randell: her favourite dish, the traditional Shepherd’s Pie.
Early Years pupils also had their special moment, preparing heartfelt drawings and songs to commemorate the day—proof that Mrs Randell’s spirit is alive from the very first years of learning.
Throughout the day, we welcomed three very special guests: Luis Sánchez, former teacher; Raúl Gil Bello, former pupil; and Steve Dawe, former staff member. Each shared touching memories of Mrs Randell, their experiences at the school, and the lasting impact she had on their lives.
To close the celebration, we held a moving ceremony in the Secret Garden, joined by our Prefects, ECI Alumni, and the school’s leadership team. The tribute included a symbolic gesture: the presentation of daffodils, Mrs Randell’s favourite flower. The event was also attended by representatives from the Town Hall, including Enrique Iglesias, Deputy Mayor for Culture, Historical Heritage and Education, and Millán Alegre, Deputy Mayor for Economy and Finance—both of whom shared a special connection with our founder.
The day concluded with a warm gathering between ECI Alumni, their children, and the school’s leadership team, bringing to a close a celebration filled with memories, gratitude and pride for a legacy that continues to guide our path.
