Carlisle Cathedral was the beautiful backdrop for our annual Presentation Evening last night, when last summer’s GCSE and A Level students’ exam achievements were celebrated. Once again, it was an incredibly special occasion for the students, parents and staff who were able to attend.
Deputy Headteacher, Mr O’Connor, welcomed everyone before handing over to our Head Students, Ellie Wilson and Angus Loughrey, who spoke about the special memories that are created at school as well as the hard work and dedication of the students to enable their success.
Our guest speaker this year was Josh Mcstay, who was Head Boy at WHS ten years ago and is now a Media Analyst at Apple Inc. Josh warmly reminisced about his days at William Howard, his favourite subject being History. He reminded the students that it is only themselves that can make their own history.
The Year 11 students of 2023 were congratulated by Director of Learning, Miss Mulholland, before being presented with their celebratory scrolls.
Lorrayne Hughes, CEO of Cumbria Education Trust, presented three of the student’s special awards that recognised our three core values: Jessica Fox received the award for outstanding RESPONSIBILITY; Nicole Todhunter for outstanding RESPECT; and Seth Holden for RESILIENCE.
It was then the turn for Mrs Swan, Sixth Form Director of Learning, to commend the ex-Year 13 students and it was wonderful to hear of the many university places and diverse career pathways the students are now embarking on. This year the ‘Croglin Trust Award’ was awarded to Will Carswell; and Jonathan-Alvarez Bullya received the Sixth Form Role Model Award (in honour of the memory of Mr David Bones, former Head of Sixth Form).
Headteacher, Ms Pigdon concluded the evening with her speech, reflecting how the students will always be part of William Howard School just as the school will always be a part of them.
We would like to thank the school choir who punctuated the ceremony with wonderful renditions of ‘World in Union’ and ‘Winter Hymnal’, and Year 13 student Lorna Mattinson, who played piano for guests as they entered and departed the occasion.
