Students and staff at Croydon College, Coulsdon Sixth Form College and Croydon University Centre mourn the death of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Her life has been one of exceptional duty and service to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth and she will be sorely missed by many.

Her Majesty the Queen, Elizabeth II, was driven by her dedication to the service of others. Through seven decades of change and challenge, she inspired millions of people with her stability, strength, compassion, resilience, wisdom, and tireless work for the good of the country and the Commonwealth. Rooted in her dedication, she remained a dependable source of certainty and was a champion for young people, education and skills.

Croydon College received a visit from Her Majesty in 1960. Students, local school children, the mayor, staff and many others from local neighbourhoods keenly sought to catch a glimpse of the Queen as she made her way into College. Older members of the Croydon communities will no doubt fondly remember her visit.

Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II leaves an incredible legacy of work that has reached not only every corner of the United Kingdom, but far around the world. She will be sorely missed. We join the Royal Family, the Commonwealth and the world in mourning her passing.

“I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong.”

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, 21 April 1947