On Tuesday 30th June, AKS proudly welcomed over 350 students, families, governors, staff and guests to its annual Senior School Prize Giving, held in the OAKS Hall. The evening provided a fitting opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the achievements, character and commitment of students across the Senior School and Sixth Form during another exceptional academic year.
Opening the evening, Chair of Governors David Stanhope welcomed guests and reflected on another successful year for the school. He spoke about the strong foundations on which AKS continues to thrive, highlighting the benefits of being part of United Learning, which provides long-term stability and security during a challenging period for the independent school sector. He also expressed his gratitude to the AKS Lytham Foundation and the Lytham Schools Foundation for their continued bursarial support, helping to widen access to an AKS education for more young people. Mr Stanhope celebrated the school's recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspection, where the Careers Programme was recognised as a significant strength, before thanking the dedicated teaching and operational staff, parents and students whose collective commitment continues to make AKS such a special community.
Headmaster David Harrow delivered a heartfelt and characteristically engaging address, celebrating the breadth of achievement across the school over the past year. From academic excellence and sporting success to outstanding performances in the arts, co-curricular opportunities and service to the wider community, he reflected on another year in which students had embraced every opportunity available to them.
The evening also provided an opportunity to recognise the dedication and service of three long-serving members of staff who are retiring. Estates Team member Nicky Phillips, Physics teacher Keith Bleakley and Biology teacher Georgina Merrick were warmly thanked for their many years of commitment to AKS and its students, with their contribution to school life acknowledged with heartfelt appreciation.
The Headmaster concluded with a powerful reflection on the significance of every student's journey throughout the year, saying:
"With over 800 students at AKS, that represents hundreds of years of life experience accumulated over the past twelve months - years that have been well lived. Thank you to our students for your learning, your perseverance and for making the very most of every opportunity."
The audience was then treated to a beautifully performed piano solo by Year 13 student Jacob B, whose moving rendition of No Surprises by Radiohead provided a memorable musical interlude.
The school was delighted to welcome distinguished alumnus Andrew Jones as this year's keynote speaker and prize presenter. A former Arnold School student, Andrew has enjoyed an outstanding international career spanning four decades as a senior executive in the global manufacturing, technology and energy sectors. Having held executive leadership roles across Europe, Asia and beyond, he has led multinational organisations, driven innovation in smart energy and water technologies, and worked alongside governments and industry leaders to address global challenges including climate change, renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure. Andrew retired in 2025 and remains an active member of both the Old Arnoldians, wider OAKS alumni community and has recently been appointed as an AKS Lytham Foundation Trustee.
As he presented prizes to students in Years 7 to 12 for outstanding attainment and effort across a wide range of GCSE and A Level subjects, Andrew also awarded a number of historic school prizes recognising excellence not only in academic achievement, but also in leadership, enterprise, sport, the arts, community service, friendship, courage and perseverance.
Drawing on both his school experiences and international career, Andrew shared an inspiring message with students about the values that had guided his own journey. Reflecting on the friendships formed during his time at Arnold School and the importance of curiosity, resilience and lifelong learning, he encouraged students to develop what he described as their own "AKS Compass" - a set of values that would help guide them through future opportunities and challenges.
He reminded students:
"If everyone here today can be a little braver, a little kinder and a little more determined, there is no limit to what can be achieved. This room is filled with the leaders, creators and problem-solvers of the future. Pursue what you love, value your friendships, and trust that your AKS Compass will guide you wherever life takes you."
Year 12 student and incoming Head Student Ethan B delivered a warm Vote of Thanks on behalf of the student body, before fellow incoming Head Student Ella A presented Andrew with a commemorative gift in appreciation of his inspiring address.
The evening concluded with a stunning duet of For Good from the award-winning musical Wicked, composed by Stephen Schwartz, beautifully performed by Jen A and Kirtika S. Their heartfelt performance brought an uplifting and fitting close to a celebration of achievement, character and the shared values that define the AKS community.