STUDENTS from Year 12 who left Kingsmead School in Wiveliscombe this summer have been welcomed back at school for a ‘Big Reunion’ evening.

Parents, staff and governors joined students to celebrate their individual and collective accomplishments, and for the presentation of academic and sporting leadership awards.

The evening began with music provided by Year 10 GCSE Music students Joseph Middleton and Ferne Hennessy, who performed the Adele song ‘Love in the Dark’.

Mara Carey Wood was awarded the Flook Cup for her all round contribution to school life and Emilia Silaste was awarded the Peace Cup for her outstanding language learning as a dual linguist.

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

Kingsmead was thrilled to welcome special guest speaker Julie Elmy, who retired from her role as assistant headteacher at Kingsmead in July. She spoke about the journey and achievements the students had made during their secondary school years at Kingsmead, and the exciting time they had ahead of them in their future lives and careers.

Charlie Pierce, leader of Student Support for the year group, said: “It was very satisfying to reflect on the considerable achievements of the Year 11 of 2017. Years of hard work paid off in some superb results. Students made great progress. It was a delight to catch up with them and see how they are settling into their life at college or in an apprenticeship.”