On Tuesday 1st July, AKS proudly welcomed over 350 students, families, staff and guests to its annual Senior School Prize Giving, held in the OAKS Hall. The evening provided a memorable opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the achievements and character of students across the Senior School.
Opening the evening, AKS Governor Dr John Duthie warmly addressed the audience, describing the evening as a tribute to the exceptional talents, determination and all-round commitment of AKS students.
Headmaster David Harrow offered a heartfelt address that captured the breadth of accomplishments over the past year, from academic success to sporting triumphs, performing arts excellence, co-curricular engagement and service to the wider community. He also paid special tribute to the dedication of both teaching and operational staff who contribute so significantly to the life of the school. A particular highlight was the recognition of Director of Performing Arts, Michael Hodgkinson, who moves on after making a transformative impact on music at AKS.
The evening also marked a poignant moment as we honoured the remarkable service of long-standing Senior School colleagues – Michelle Whorlton-Jones, Liz Luke, John Bridges, Heather House and Ian Cowlishaw – whose combined decades of dedication have shaped the lives of countless students. Their commitment, care and presence in the school community were warmly acknowledged and they were each wished the very best for the future with heartfelt thanks.
The Headmaster concluded with a powerful message to students:
“We are here tonight to celebrate this year’s outstanding cohort of students – for being AKS, for pursuing their passions, achieving their ambitions, and for their potential to go on and shape the world around them.”
The evening featured captivating performances, including a commanding vocal solo from Sammy C of Phantom of the Opera, and a moving piano rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Hugo F.
A distinguished guest, AKS Lytham Foundation Patron and former QMS student Professor Cherry Wainwright, was welcomed as the keynote speaker and prize presenter. An internationally acclaimed pharmacologist, Professor Wainwright has spent her career advancing research in cardiovascular disease and drug discovery. Her contributions include nearly 100 scientific papers, two patents, and the supervision of 28 PhD students. She currently holds the title of Professor Emeritus at Robert Gordon University and is the President Elect of the British Pharmacological Society.
As she presented prizes to students in Years 7 to 12 for outstanding attainment and effort across a range of disciplines, including GCSE and A Level subjects, Professor Wainwright also awarded a series of historic school prizes. These recognised excellence not only in academics, sport, and the arts but also in enterprise, leadership, community service, friendship, courage and perseverance.
In her address, Professor Wainwright reflected on her own school journey and career, sharing an inspiring message with students:
“Life does not reward perfection – it rewards persistence. Keep striving, keep questioning and keep believing in your power to shape the future.”
Sixth form student Alfie K delivered a warm Vote of Thanks, bringing the evening to a close.
Prize Giving 2025 was a powerful reminder of all that is possible when talent, hard work and opportunity come together in an environment where every student is supported to flourish.