Year 13 Leavers' Event!
On Friday 28 May, we waved a very fond farewell to our Year 13 students as they left the academy
for the final time.
The Post 16 team thought long and hard about what would be a fitting send-off for a year group
that has endured well over a year of disrupted education due to the pandemic. The usual
celebratory events could not be held because of restrictions, however that didn’t stop us from
giving students a memorable experience.
For once, the weather was definitely on our side as sunny, clear skies set the scene for the day. Students
were greeted with chilled mocktails, served from Cork and Cart, mingling in the warm sunshine until it was
time for lunch. ‘Takeaway’ favourites, pizza and the Teesside staple, chicken parmo, were served in Baristas,
followed by more drinks and ice cream outside.
Then came the speeches. Tutors spoke movingly about their tutor groups, followed by some heartfelt words from
our outgoing Head Boy, Ben Young, and Head Girl, Imaan Rahman. The outgoing Student Union President, Shayne
Hulse-Raper completed the student speeches. Mrs Hill, Mrs Turner and Mrs Scott then took to the microphone,
and even though they spoke individually, they all conveyed the same message. That this group of young people,
who have faced disruption, uncertainty, anxiety and confusion, have done so with the maturity of those twice
their age. They have never complained, worked hard and have done everything that their teachers have asked of
them, and more. They deserve the very best of futures, and we are so proud of them.
As the event drew to a close, students were gifted a personal card, with the words ‘Remember You are All Amazing’ on the
front. At the academy we certainly do not need reminding of how amazing our students are.
