Six of Bexley Music’s exceptional students were presented with achievement awards last Tuesday at a special event, which took place at The Orchard Theatre in Dartford.
As part of London South East Academies Trust, Bexley Music joined the eight schools within the Trust, together with London South East Colleges Alternative Curriculum College, for the glittering celebration.
The awards recognised pupils’ success in many different areas, from most progress made academic achievement, and attendance, to resilience, musicianship, sports, and citizenship.
Every child and the young person attending went up on stage to collect their medal and certificate, with guests hearing about their achievements over the past year.
During the event, guests were also treated to fantastic performances by Bexley Music students and a great solo performance by pupil Louis Cahill, who attends Bromley Trust Academy (Blenheim).
"As a new member of the Trust, we were delighted to be involved for the first time in the Awards Ceremony. I am so proud of the achievements of all members of Bexley Music, so it was a privilege to present the prizes to the six students chosen to receive awards this year. In addition, it was wonderful for the Bexley Youth Band and Orchestra to have been asked to provide the music performances to open and close the ceremony. This opportunity was really appreciated and enjoyed by all members.” Julie Stanning, Head of Bexley Music.
Ciara Cogley (19) from Sidcup won the Bexley Music Head’s Award , having been a committed member for many years and an excellent ambassador and role model:
“Bexley Music is a real family I’ve loved being part of for 11 years. I’m delighted to come back this evening and receive this award. I love performing and am now studying for a degree in Actor Musicianship at Rose Bruford College.”
CEO of London South East Academies Trust, Dr. Sam Parrett CBE, welcomed pupils and guests to the event, saying:
“We are delighted to bring all our schools and our music service together for such a special evening of celebration – and congratulate all our outstanding winners.
“The last few years have been exceptionally challenging for our children and young people, but tonight demonstrates just what can be achieved with hard work, dedication, and a positive mindset.
“As our Trust and family of schools continues to grow, I am grateful to our staff, Local Authorities, and Trustees, whose support is fundamental to our work.
“We know that education has the power to transform lives, and tonight’s celebration is a fantastic reflection of what can be achieved.”
Deputy CEO of London South East Academies Trust and compere for the evening, Neil Miller, added:
“This evening has been about celebrating our pupils’ many, outstanding achievements. Collecting an award in front of family and friends is an extraordinary moment and I hope every single winner is as proud of themselves as we are of them.
“Seeing how far so many of tonight’s winners have come is truly remarkable. We have seen exceptional displays of resilience, perseverance and hard work, which are all important ingredients for success now and in the future.
“Thank you to all our staff teams for the exceptional support they provide to pupils on a daily basis and to parents and carers for working with us.
“We look forward to watching our talented pupils progress successfully through education and into great careers; truly fulfilling their potential, which we know is huge. A very well done to you all.”
Among the guests attending the event was the Mayor of Bexley, Councillor Nick O’Hare. He said:
“It’s a real pleasure to be here this evening to celebrate the success of all these young people. Exceptional work is being done in London South East Academies’ schools and I hope they continue to grow and become even stronger.
“The performance by Bexley Music was a wonderful part of the evening. Music is so important and it’s wonderful to see such talented young people on stage. Many congratulations to everyone involved and all the award winners.”
Bexley Music’s Prize Winners:
Head’s Award: Ciara Cogley
Progress Award: Ali Collett
Mentor Award: Hadessah Nanjo
Commitment Award: Oliver Sartain
Highest Achievement Award: Emily Anh Van Tran
Musician of the Year: Evie Cooper