College Prize Giving Celebrates Pupils’ Exceptional Achievements

Before the ceremony the Old Princethorpians Committee hosted a special Drinks Reception for the returning Upper Sixth and their parents, providing a welcome opportunity for last year’s cohort to get together and catch up on their news since the summer.

Trustee, Bernard Warner, opened the proceedings, warmly welcoming parents, friends of the College and Princethorpians old and new to the occasion.

In his formal address the Headmaster, Ed Hester, gave thanks to all those who make Princethorpe the special place it is. His warm words paid tribute to all that is done in support of the College, the kindness, the compassion and the values that underpin the success stories of so many of our pupils and not just those who received prizes on the evening. 

The atmosphere all evening was joyful and celebratory and there were superb musical interludes from the school Orchestra, Jazz Band and the Year 7 Chorus, who impressively sang Bohemian Rhapsody. It was a fitting tribute to the Leavers of 2019 who were the first Year 7 group to sing at Prize Giving and who had sung the very same song seven years before.

And then it was time for the presentation of the GCSE and A-level Examination Certificates and a myriad of trophies, cups and shields. Watching the stream of young people coming across the stage and shaking Mr Hester’s hand was truly inspiring and humbling. The talent in evidence, the grit and determination, the passion, enthusiasm and commitment were all applauded and honoured.

Some of the young people took to the stage with confidence, others more self-consciously, some made us laugh, some brought a tear to our eye as we listened to, Head of Sixth Form, Ben Collie’s citations.

And finally, it was time for the main award, the Princethorpe Shield, the oldest and most prestigious College award presented annually to the student who is seen to embody the spirit and ethos of the College in many facets of their school life.  It was a very popular decision, that brought the audience to their feet, cheering a delighted and surprised Meera Chauhan who was welcomed to the stage to receive the Shield.

Then to close the proceedings Head Girl, Leah Dunkley, and Head Boy, Jack Bent, gave an eloquent vote of thanks before the evening finally came to an inspiring end with enthusiastic singing of the College Hymn, Here I Am Lord by the assembled throng.

The full list of Prize Winners can be found in the Prize Giving Programme below.