GCSE Presentation Evening

Our annual GCSE Presentation Evening took place on Thursday of last week. It was a fantastic opportunity to congratulate and celebrate the achievements of last year’s leavers, whose results were the best in the school’s history. Our special guest, former pupil Stephen Connolly, presented certificates and special awards. Stephen, who is also a member of our school’s Governing Body, spoke about his time at the forerunner of our school, St Thomas More, and how he progressed into one of the country’s leading barristers in corporate law, practising at Exchange Chambers, Manchester. During his address, he told the audience of former pupils, their families about selecting candidates for pupillage as a barrister, and stressed the importance of resilience, generosity, authenticity and courage in both your personal and professional life. 

This year’s presentation saw a record attendance with extra seating needed in the assembly hall, and those in attendance saw pupils receive their examination certificates, subject prizes and special awards. Among those to be awarded the most prestigious awards was Caitlin Ramsay, whose outstanding GCSE results saw her receive the Bishop Foley Cup for academic excellence, whilst Jack Bennett received the Michael McDermott Memorial Cup for excellence in the face of significant adversity. Evi Osiriomo’s outstanding commitment to all aspects of school life, including being the driving force behind the instigation of Culture Day, saw her deservedly receive the Basil McGowan Shield, whilst Adom Abaidoo’s steely determination to succeed in her studies was recognised with the Canon Taylor shield for academic endeavour. Finally, the Head Boy and Head Girl, Luke Orton and Millie-Ann Kirkpatrick, were also rewarded for their contributions to and on behalf of their year group.