AT JKHS's annual prize-giving, students were commended for their hard work, perseverance and contribution to the life of the school and the wider community. There was a celebration of endeavour and achievement across a wide range of activities: sporting, community, academic and in the arts.

Natalie Middlecote in Year 9 is the latest recipient of the prestigious Pride of John Kyrle Award. Following the award being presented in memory of Sue Vinall last year, Nigel Griffiths said Natalie was another legend of the school.

Mr Griffiths said how pupils and staff see Natalie as an inspiration. She is involved in all aspects of the life of the school, including being part of the Leos club. Natalie is a young lady with a great sense of humour. She is kind to others and has many friends at school.

Natalie is a very determined individual with an outstanding record of achievement in her work. She has ambitions to be a designer in the future. Mr Griffiths said how Natalie's family has been involved in the community and were great supporters of the school. Her brother, Adam, is the current head boy.

Chair of Trustees, Denise Strutt welcomed everyone to the annual presentation evening. Guests included Mr Guy Marshal Brown, former student and presenter of the keynote speech; Reverend Prebendary Kay Garlic, Deputy Lieutenant, representing Lady Darnley; General Sir Peter de la Billiere the mayor, Cllr Harry Bramer and deputy mayor, Mrs Mary Ward; former mayoress Anne Grey; Councillors Valerie Coacker and Phil Cutter, and former trustees, including Rod Barker.

Denise Strutt congratulated all prize winners on their hard work and achievement. She thanked the staff at the school for their hard work, commitment and the all-round care they showed to students. Mrs Strutt said how the 'Happy, Healthy, Successful' mantra continued to drive the work of the school.

Mr Griffiths, drawing on the experiences, encouraged students to ensure their family was the most important aspect of their lives. He said they should aim to always make their loved ones proud. He told students to dream big, always striking a balance between work and play. Mr Griffiths said how proud how was of his late mother who had reached her dream to become a nurse, even though she had to gain qualifications while holding down another job. Mr Griffiths concluded by saying that if students were lucky, like him and his mother, they would eventually have a job they loved and that they were proud to do.

Former JKHS Guy Marshall-Brown presented certificates to students. He said how impressed he was with the range of activities being celebrated. In an excellent speech, Mr Marshall-Brown explained his work at The Royal College of Art in London where he is studying for a Master's Degree in Ceramics and Glass. Since he left John Kyrle, Mr Marshall-Brown has exhibited his work in Milan and Brussels. Mr Marshall-Brown said students should pursue their dreams and do work that they loved.

Head girl, Isla Kendall and head boy, Adam Middlecote thanked Mr Marshall-Brown and presented him with a gift from the school. They congratulated students on their achievements and recalled their almost seven-year journey at JKHS and how much they had enjoyed it.