The achievements of the young people of Stoke Damerel Community College have been celebrated at the annual Awards Ceremony on the theme of This Is Me.
The song This Is Me, from The Greatest Showman, was performed by a group of GCSE singers and musicians and proved a show-stopping opening to the annual ceremony which celebrates student achievement across the curriculum.
“It’s been a real honour to be part of such a wonderful evening.”
Stephen Seki – a pharmacist and motivational speaker – was the guest of honour and spoke to the assembled audience of more than 400 staff, students and their families about the importance of never letting a challenge beat you.
It was part of a packed evening which saw more than 100 students given awards for their achievements in a range of subjects and their contribution to college life during the 2017-18 academic year.
In addition to a variety of videos, musical performances and poetic renditions a number of special annual awards including the Roma French Award and the Principal’s Award were presented.
Stephen Seki said it was ‘an absolute privilege’ to be asked to speak at the event which Lord Mayor Councillor Sam Davey also attended.
“I was blown away by the students,”
said Stephen, who spoke about his life in Uganda and his journey from farmer to pharmacist.
“It was an absolute privilege to be invited by Anita Frier to come and speak – I felt so proud of all the students. They are an absolute credit to the college and their families – it’s been a real honour to be part of such a wonderful evening.”
Students were recognised for a whole range of achievements including academic, sporting, pastoral and charitable endeavours.
The Principal’s Award is given to students who exemplify the college’s values to an exceptionally high standard and Jasmine Short, who is in Year 13, was this year’s recipient.
“I am so pleased, and extremely surprised to have won,”
said Jasmine.
“It’s the perfect way to end my time here at Stoke Damerel.”
Sisters Ellie Hall-Hutchings and Jade Hall-Hutchings were the winners of this year’s Roma French Award.
“Thank you to students and staff for putting so much effort into what was a brilliant evening,”
said Lord Mayor Sam Davey.
“It was wonderful to hear Stephen Seki speak with such passion and it was clear his very personal story resonated with everyone in the audience.”
Executive principal Anita Frier said the evening was a “fitting celebration” of the college’s young people and their achievements.
“I want to extend my congratulations to all our award winners, our performers and presenters on the evening and our staff for supporting our students to be the best they can be,”
she said.
“It was also lovely to see so many families, parents and carers joining the celebrations – we are so proud of our young people.”
