On Wednesday 11 December, we celebrated the outstanding achievements of our students at our Presentation and Awards Evening. Held in the school events hall, the evening highlighted the exceptional efforts and contributions of students across a range of fields, including academics, extracurricular activities, and community service.
The evening began with a warm welcome from our Headteacher Julia Polley, who acknowledged the dedication and perseverance of both students and staff over the past year. The ceremony featured the presentation of prestigious awards, interspersed with inspiring talks from the Head Girl Millie Gilbey, and Chris Ellis – Alumni Lead, who shared their own journeys and those of former students beyond Wensleydale.
The award and winners were:
- The Wensleydale School Shield for Excellence in Outdoor Education was awarded to Oliver Myers for his outstanding achievements in waterskiing and rugby. Oliver recently achieved a silver medal in the Scottish Nationals and competes at a high level in rugby for Newcastle Falcons and Mowden Park.
- The Rotary Club Prize for Vocational Education went to Lucy Walls in recognition of her exemplary performance in Design Technology and Hospitality and Catering. Lucy’s dedication to vocational studies and leadership in the classroom made her a deserving recipient of this award.
- The Ted Howden Trophy for Outstanding Effort in Year 9 was presented to Warren Webber, whose resilience and commitment to his studies have been exceptional. Warren exceeded academic targets in 12 of 14 subjects and demonstrated a positive influence on his peers.
- The Hilary Davies Shield for Best Effort in Work Experience Placement was awarded to Katie Brice. Katie overcame her shyness to excel during her work placement at Mocha in Richmond, earning high praise for her work ethic and positive attitude.
- The John Rising Award for Citizen of the Year was presented to Jake Sales for his remarkable fundraising efforts for autism charities. Jake’s dedication to raising awareness and supporting the ASD community is truly inspirational.
- The Eric Hall Trophy for Contributions to Music Outside of Lessons went to Orla Campbell, who has performed with the Service Children’s Community Choir at prestigious venues like the Royal Albert Hall. Orla balances her musical commitments with exceptional academic achievements.
- The Mark Burton Award was presented to Belle Hunter, who embodies the school’s ethos with her positivity, inclusivity, and dedication. Belle is a role model for her peers and a pleasure to teach.
- The Graham Cup for Contributions to the School was awarded to Emily Manning, whose strength of character and positive attitude have made her a key contributor to the school community.
- The Anderson Trophy for Best Ambassador for the School was given to Oscar Robb, whose leadership as Deputy Head Boy and dedication to the school’s values make him an outstanding ambassador.
- The Kath Barker Memorial Trophy went to Pippa Ferguson for her contributions to music, including performances at school events and mentoring younger students.
- CCF Cadet of the Year was awarded to Leah Smith, who has excelled in the Combined Cadet Force, demonstrating commitment, leadership, and resilience.
Attendees were treated to refreshments provided by the school’s Hospitality and Catering students, who demonstrated their culinary skills in organising the evening’s catering.
Julia Polley concluded the event with heartfelt congratulations to all award recipients and a message of encouragement for current students to strive for excellence in their endeavours. “Tonight is a celebration of hard work, resilience, and community spirit – qualities that define The Wensleydale School. These young people are an inspiration to us all.”
