Celebration Events: Honouring Student Achievement Across the School

Traditionally, our Celebration Day has been reserved for students transitioning from Year 8 to Year 9. However, this year we chose to do things differently. In recognition of the hard work, dedication, and resilience demonstrated by all our students throughout the academic year, we celebrated every individual across the school.

In a joyful ceremony, every student was awarded a certificate. These certificates were presented by our Headteacher, Mr Pullen, along with Sarah Stivarius, Vice Chair of the Governing Board, and Sarah Snaydon, Chair of the Governing Board. Parents and carers were warmly welcomed to attend, and it was truly inspiring to see students cheering, clapping, and celebrating one another's accomplishments.

In addition to the certificates awarded to all, a select number of students received special recognition from their Heads of Year. These individuals were honoured with certificates in key character and learner profile categories, including: Caring, Open-Minded, Inquirer, Balanced, Principled, Knowledgeable, Reflective, Thinker, Risk-Taker, and Excellent Communicator. 

These ten attributes are the foundation of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile, which plays a central role in shaping our school community. The IB Learner Profile helps students grow into confident, compassionate, and capable individuals who are prepared to contribute meaningfully to a global society. By encouraging learners to reflect on these traits, we aim to nurture young people who are not only academically successful but also ethically grounded, socially responsible, and globally minded. We are very proud to have awarded these to the selected students.

One particularly special moment during the event was the presentation of a unique award to one outstanding student. A Year 8 student received a prestigious award in recognition of her remarkable progress, exceptional effort, and all-around excellence across academic, social, and personal development. To mark this achievement, she was presented with a trophy, a £100 gift voucher, and had her name engraved on the school’s official honours shield — a lasting reminder of her extraordinary year.

Following the formal celebrations, students were treated to refreshments as a token of appreciation for their efforts. Each child received a voucher for a free ice cream from the visiting ice cream van. Hot dogs and cupcakes were generously provided by Gill Cook from the school kitchen and her wonderful team, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The event also featured a delicious selection of handmade treats prepared by our talented Year 8 and Year 9 food technology students. Their creations included mini quiches, vegan sausage rolls, and a variety of other tasty bites, showcasing their culinary skills and creativity.

We felt the events were a huge success and incredibly meaningful for our students. It was heartwarming to see them not only feel proud of their own achievements, but also genuinely celebrate the successes of their peers. The atmosphere was filled with encouragement, positivity, and a true sense of community. 

After each ceremony, parents had the opportunity to speak with their child’s teachers—catching up, sharing in their pride, and discussing progress. Meanwhile, students took the chance to capture the moment by taking photos with their favourite teachers, parents and carers, and friends creating lasting memories of a day that celebrated who they are and how far they’ve come.

A special thank you goes to Sarah Stivaries, Vice Chair, and Sarah Snaydon, Chair of the Governing Board, for their time and support on the day. We are also incredibly grateful to all staff, students, families, and volunteers who helped make the event such a memorable and successful occasion.

This year’s Celebration Events not only recognised academic and personal growth, but also highlighted the strong sense of community and support that defines our school. We are incredibly proud of all our students and look forward to seeing them continue to thrive.