STUDENTS celebrated success in style at an annual awards ceremony marking the culmination of a year of hard work and commitment to learning.
Academic, sporting and community accolades were awarded to Year 7-11 students at Longfield Academy of Sport, Darlington.
Special guest and leading educationalist Mark White told a packed audience of family, friends, staff and students what a superb place Darlington was to grow up.
“I came here 40 years ago and fell in love with the place,” said the chairman of the Longfield Academy Trust, who will receive an OBE for services to education on Tuesday at Buckingham Palace.
“I saw how education changes people’s lives and I wanted to be part of that. I worked at Teesside University for four decades and supported lots of schools and colleges in the area.”
He said young people were the most important in the country and they could choose what they wanted to do with their lives.
“You should make your voices heard in the world,” he said. “Ask lots of questions, tell people your ideas, ask for help and listen to the advice and wisdom of your teachers. Be yourself and be happy.”
Head teacher Susan Johnson added: “The young people receiving the awards represent the best in what has been an excellent year. This ceremony is testament to their achievements and our hopes for the future.”
Awards
Head teacher’s awards
Aacademic achievement, Gabrielle Padurariu; best GCSEs, Faye Chilton; curriculum award, Leah Lakin-Cairns.
Special awards
Service to the community: Owen Simpson
Capita Award: Cameron Wallace and Georgia Lovejoy
Words and pictures Award: Hannah Dixon
Attendance: Megan Carter
Head boy: Thomas Bushby
Head girl: Faye Chilton
Respect Award: Anthony Jinx
Exellence Award: Megan Toor
Determination: Ben Franklin and Rose Bellerby
STEM KS3: Adam Cruddace
STEM KS4: Glyn Todd