James Calvert Spence College (JCSC) welcomed pupils, families, staff, and distinguished guests for a memorable evening of celebration; marking the school’s first awards ceremony of its kind in more than ten years. The event, held in the school’s main hall, honored not only academic excellence but also the values of leadership, resilience, and kindness that underpin the school’s ethos.
Headteacher, Mr James Andriot opened the evening with a warm address, acknowledging the significance of the occasion: “This is the first one of these type of events for more than ten years, so I am hopeful that we can make this a regular fixture annually,” he told the audience. “Tonight, we pay tribute to the whole child — their achievements, their growth, and the values they carry with them every day.”
In attendance were several VIP guests, including Chair of Governors Sue Currie, whose extended service to the school community was met with heartfelt applause. “Sue’s support and commitment to our JCSC community has been brilliant,” said Mr Andriot. “She should leave feeling very proud of her contribution.”
Newly appointed Chair of Governors Anne Gouldthorpe, a recently retired Headteacher from London now living in Northumberland, was also formally welcomed.
Local artist and former JCSC student Luke McTaggart completed the trio of special guests. “Luke is one of the most energetic and enthusiastic people you will ever meet,” Mr Andriot said. “We’re proud to have him back to inspire our students.”
Before the awards presentation began, Mr Andriot shared a video montage reviewing the highlights of the school year. “I was going to spend tonight giving you a verbal review of the year — but you’ve been spared,” he joked. “The video captures just a glimpse of what makes this community so special.”
A standout moment of the evening came in the form of a live musical performance by student Paige, who captivated the audience with her powerful voice. “She has the courage to stand in front of 150+ people and share her talent,” Mr Andriot said. “I told her the other day — I could have singing lessons for 100 years and still not sound as good as she does.”
With applause still echoing from Paige’s performance, the awards were distributed year group by year group (years 6 – 13), with recognition given in five key categories: Achievement, Progress, Resilience, Leadership, and Kindness.
“These young people exemplify our school values — Be Kind, Work Hard, Aim High,” he explained. “The achievement awards celebrate high academic performance and tenacity, while the progress awards recognise those who have shown outstanding development in their learning”: explained Mr Andriot.
He went on to speak passionately about the importance of resilience: “I recognise it as ‘grit’ — the determination to keep going in the face of adversity. The young people receiving this award tonight can all do this, and more.”
Leadership awards were presented to students showing initiative in school, sport, and the wider community. Meanwhile, the Kindness awards honoured those who demonstrate compassion, good manners, and emotional intelligence — traits Mr Andriot believes are just as crucial as academic success.
The ceremony concluded with a moment of gratitude to the staff at JCSC: “We’re coming to the end of a long and busy year, and so many of them go the extra mile for the pupils day in and day out. Thank you to each and every one of you,” said Mr Andriot.
The school ensured families had the opportunity to take photos at the end of the ceremony in a designated area under a decorative balloon arch; preserving memories of a night that celebrated the very best of JCSC.
The evening was a not only a celebration of our brilliant pupils, it signaled a new tradition for JCSC, and a community united in pride.
A massive congratulations from all the staff at JCSC to our winners!
