Key Stage 3 Celebration of Achievement

Monday 4 July 2011

On Tuesday 28 June Year 9 pupils and their parents filled the main hall at Cirencester Deer Park School for our Key Stage 3 Celebration of Achievement. As Headteacher, Chiquita Henson, welcomed them and handed over to Head of Key Stage 3, Caroline Skerten, who co-ordinated the awards’ evening there was a strong feeling of anticipation. Incredibly over 90% of pupils in the year group were nominated for awards for their effort, improvement and achievement and, of these, more than 50% received a certificate. “It was lovely to be able to celebrate the achievements of the year group and to reflect on the potential they have as the start their GCSE studies.

There were individual awards in each curriculum area and Heads of Faculty commended the year group on their resilience and resourcefulness. Anne Hacker and Liz Norman, Heads of PE and Expressive Arts, also acknowledged the tremendous commitment of pupils who regularly participate in extra-curricular activities. James Johnson, Citizenship Co-ordinator, identified 2 pupils for their outstanding contribution to the school’s community.

The school’s Chair of Governors, Philip Beckerlegge, joined Headteacher, Chiquita Henson, on stage to congratulate the pupils on their awards. Philip Beckerlegge announced the names of 14 pupils who had been nominated for awards in a significant number of subjects: ‘I am always impressed by our pupils’ commitment to their learning and the way in which they support each other and celebrate their collective success.’ Similarly, Chiquita Henson, praised those in the year group who had achieved excellence by attaining 8 or more Level 7s and/or 8s in their end of Year 9 reports: ‘We aim to challenge pupils to achieve more than they first think is possible and when they do it is important we acknowledge and rewards their efforts. I am pleased so many have done so well in Key Stage 3.’ This year the special Headteacher’s Award went to the pupil in Year 9 who had made the most progress in the core subjects since joining the school in Year 7.

‘Having only recently joined the CDPS parent community we enjoyed and appreciated the KS3 Celebration evening. We continue to be very impressed by the effort and thoughtfulness that goes into school life in all respects and from all of the staff. We thought Miss Skerten did a grand job as compere for the evening with the onerous job of linking and chivvying people along without appearing to be rushing. The musical interludes show just what a diverse community the school creates and how talented these youngsters really are.’ Mr and Mrs Stone

Also congratulating the successful pupils was guest speaker, Stuart Boreham, who in his closing speech, reflected on the year group’s achievements and inspired the audience by describing the challenges he has faced and how he overcame them. He left a very clear message to carry them forward into Key Stage 4: Believe in yourself and stay true to your vision and moral values.

Related Links:

• Stuart Boreham