Our annual Prize Giving Ceremony was held on 27 June 2023 at the Rose Theatre in Kingston. The evening celebrated a wide range of Achievement, Endeavour and Progress accomplishments together with many more prizes for our co-curricular activities across all year groups. As part of these celebrations, guests were treated to a clarinet solo by Nina and talented performances by Choralia and Flux Dance Company.
Our Principal, Rebecca Glover, gave an inspirational speech about the power of storytelling to help us find our way with meaning and purpose and educational myths. Traditional tales of slow and steady wins the race, aren’t always accurate in this fast-paced world. Technological progress is not all inherently good. She advised that we need to adapt story lessons “to the realities of the present day” and reminded pupils “to evaluate our strategies and approach based on the specific circumstances and challenges we face.”
As we grapple with the complexities of the world, she encouraged pupils to share, listen and forge new connections that transcend boundaries. Her speech emboldened pupils to be the “architects of a new story”, their story, intertwining humans, nature and technology to inspire, empower and transform our future.
Our guest speaker, Local Governing Body member, Gerry Holden, inspired pupils with three life lessons. He reflected on how resilience is an “attitude of mind” and while tough to teach, it is acquired by reflecting on the challenges you have been given and your response to them. He described the importance of learning from adversity, reminding pupils that “it’s not how far you fall, it’s how quickly you bounce back.” He closed by challenging the pupils to “make the most of the opportunities that life throws at you”, and to explore, dream and discover as they go forth onto the next chapter of their lives.
Outgoing Head Girl, Lily, summarised her unique Surbiton High School experience with tributes to amazing teachers, opportunities and friends she has made over seven years. She is confident that Surbiton High School has set her up well for whatever the future may hold. Holly, our incoming Head Girl, thanked Lily for being such a fantastic role model and the staff and organisers for creating a wonderful celebration of the pupils’ achievements.
Our Prize Giving ceremony truly celebrates the Surbiton High School spirit. Congratulations to all who took part!
