The evening was dedicated to celebrating success in all its forms, from academic excellence to exceptional character. The highly anticipated Academic Excellence Awards were presented, acknowledging the incredible dedication and hard work of our top scholars. These were followed by the poignant Headteacher's Awards, given in loving memory of a former student and cherished teachers who are no longer with us. The evening culminated with the presentation of the Emma Murray Award for Kindness, a truly special recognition of compassion and empathy.

The whole thing was ably overseen by three of our head students; Kareem, Ramat and Shyo. They led the event with humour, gravity and confidence. Beyond the awards, the audience was treated to a fantastic array of performances that truly showcased the diverse talents within our Academy. Members of our Matilda cast graced the stage once again, delighting everyone with their vibrant energy. Our talented Academy band delivered an unforgettable mash-up of Hans Zimmer and Billie Eilish, while alumna Clara captivated the audience with her stunning opera rendition. Adam shared insightful reflections on his recent trip to Tokyo, and our Year 7 scholars impressed with their eloquent poetry recitations. The power of spoken word was also on full display with compelling performances from Luo Chen and Roza.

We were also incredibly proud to welcome back several successful alumni who inspired us all. Meshi, currently on a full scholarship at Stowe School, spoke movingly and honestly about her journey at Co-op and her path since leaving. Other alumni in attendance to present awards included Shea and Shannon, who have just completed their A Levels after earning scholarships to Pangbourne and Dean Close respectively, and Catinca, who is about to embark on Year 13 at Wellington College. Their presence truly underscored the bright futures that await our current students.

The evening also featured a compelling speech from Mr. Richardson, whose words resonated deeply with students, staff, and parents alike. All students were presented with a copy of Homer's epic tale, The Odyssey. This classic work, filled with journeys of resilience, wisdom, and discovery, served as a powerful reminder of the incredible journeys our own students are embarking on, both academically and personally.

"It was truly humbling to see so many students recognised for their hard work and dedication," said Ms Williamson. "The pride on their faces, and the faces of their families, made all the planning worthwhile. It was a truly special night for our entire community."

A huge thank you to Ms Williamson for her dedication and organisation in bringing this event together. Her efforts ensured everything ran seamlessly. We also extend our gratitude to Mr. Ward, Ms. Leighton, and Miss Corbally for overseeing the fabulous performances that added so much to the evening, and to Miss Cunningham for providing the template from last year, which was invaluable in our preparations. Most of all, thank you to everyone involved – students, staff, families, and friends – for making this year's Prize Evening such an unforgettable celebration of success and community. What a night!