24 April 2026

A Surprise Congo for John Green, Headmaster 

We started our Summer Term with a surprise for John Green, who is retiring at the end of this academic year. 

Jenni Hawkins, Head of Music, said: “We have Congo for a very special reason this morning. It’s Mr Green’s last assembly. We’re going to sing a song Mr Green has sung at Seafordstock with adapted lyrics, ‘Sweet Mr Green’ to the tune of ‘Sweet Caroline’. Thank you to Sara Vernon, Director of Performing Arts, for adapting the lyrics to reflect John’s legacy at Seaford.” 

Students and staff practised before John arrived for assembly. John spoke and reflected on his time at Seaford, saying: “When you look back, often the days you move through routinely become the ones that matter.” John loves music and reflected on Paul McCartney’s new song “Days We Left Behind”. John spoke about what matters in life and our very special Seaford community. 

Head Boy Archie and Head Girl Eva gave a very heartwarming speech where they reflected on John’s love of acronyms. The Seaford community, led by Jenni, then gave it their all to sing “Sweet Mr Green”. John joined in with the “ba, ba, ba” and was genuinely moved by the gesture, thanking everyone at the end. 

A huge thank you to all of our students. You quickly picked up the new lyrics and gave John a rendition to be proud of! 

Keep on keeping on!