Skip to main content
News
22 July 2026

A Year of Success with Three Inspiring Awards Ceremonies

rows of silver and gold trophies

The Foundation marked the end of another successful academic year last week by celebrating the outstanding achievements of students across three special Awards Ceremonies, bringing together students, families, staff and Governors to recognise a year of hard work, progress and success.

The celebrations began at our Further Education Awards Ceremony on Wednesday evening, held at the beautiful venue at Bowers Mill.

The event celebrated the achievements of over 14 Sixth Form and College learners, showcasing the breadth of our Further Education offer and recognising the incredible progress made by them throughout their time with us.

Hosted by Simon Cotton, Head of College and Leanne Clarke, Vice Principal - Foundation, the evening was filled with pride as learners were recognised for their academic achievement, personal development, resilience and commitment.

Families, carers, friends, staff and invited guests came together to applaud the accomplishments of our learners as they prepare for the next stage of their education, employment or independent living journeys.

  • Simon Cotton (left), Laura Leeming (middle) and Sonia Stewart (right) present staff member of the year award
  • Volunteering award presented to student by Simon Cotton, Head of COllege
  • Enterprise Award given to two students presented by Clair Britton and Leanne Clarke
  • Simon Cotton presents student with the resilience award

The celebrations continued the following day, where two further ceremonies were held for our Lower School and Upper School students at the William Henry Smith School and Sixth Form.

The events provided a wonderful opportunity for parents and carers to spend time in school, meet staff, explore classrooms and learning environments, and enjoy lunch together before joining the awards presentations. It was a fantastic way to reflect on the achievements of the year while celebrating the strong partnership between home and school.

The Upper School Awards Ceremony welcomed a packed audience, with Foundation CEO Sue Ackroyd opening the afternoon by welcoming students, families and guests. In her address, she reflected on another exceptional year across the Foundation, thanking staff, families and supporters for the role they play in helping every student achieve their potential.

Across the ceremonies, more than 90 trophies and special awards were presented, recognising excellence in academic achievement, personal progress, attendance, resilience, creativity, sporting success and outstanding contribution to school life.

The Foundation also took the opportunity to celebrate our leavers, recognising the remarkable journeys they have made during their time with us. As they prepare to move on to new opportunities, they leave with the support, encouragement and best wishes of the entire Foundation community.

These three ceremonies provided a fitting conclusion to another memorable year, celebrating not only academic success but also personal growth, resilience, kindness and the values that define our Foundation.

We congratulate every award winner, every student who was recognised, and every member of our school community who has contributed to another outstanding year.

SHARE

  • Related Posts