YEAR 12 students who left Kingsmead School in Wiveliscombe this summer were welcomed back to the school for a ‘Big Reunion’ evening.

Students were joined by parents, staff and governors to celebrate their individual and collective accomplishments – and for the presentation of academic and sporting leadership awards.

The evening began with a Ukelele ‘musical mash-up’ performance from Year 10 GCSE music students Lilymay Nicholls, Eleanor Redish, Ebony Ford and Rhiannon Eagle.

Guest speaker Rachel Astington (née Heard), who studied at Kingsmead between 2002-07 and now works as a vet in Yeovil, spoke about her school memories and how her time in Kingsmead helped and equipped her on her journey towards becoming a vet.

Alexander Greaves was awarded the Flook Cup as the best ‘all-round’ student in the year group and winner of the Peace Cup was Oliver Gibbs – who was unfortunately unable to make the evening – for his outstanding language learning as a dual linguist.

Somerset Youth & Community Service development officer Jeff Brown presented Duke of Edinburgh certificates to the 15 students who achieved their Bronze Award.

Caroline Clements, leader of student support for the year, said: “It was wonderful to see so many of the year group again. They are a fantastic group of young people who should be very proud of their many, varied achievements. We are certainly proud of them and wish them all the very best for the future.”