Pupils at Keswick School were told to have the confidence and courage to chase their dreams and enjoy all the opportunities that come their way as headteacher Simon Jackson congratulated prize-winners on their achievements.
“These may be for effort, academic success, sporting performance or volunteering. Whatever it is for, you all have one characteristic in common, perseverance,” said Mr Jackson.
Of the past 18 months, he said: “Despite the challenges, everyone has made an exceptional effort to follow the constantly changing government guidance.”
He said they had really appreciated all the messages of support and could not have tested so many students and staff without the help of the amazing volunteers.
Mr Jackson said: “As with everything that is successful, it always comes down to meticulous planning and preparation. Even down to the smallest detail such as making tube racks in our design and technology workshops for the LFD tests planned for January.
“We have never been closed as a school. Throughout both lockdowns we operated a hub for vulnerable students and the children of key workers. The pastoral teams have made an incredible effort to keep in touch with families.
“We also adapted our curriculum and developed the use of Google Classroom, including producing live and recorded lessons. This work has been led by my two deputies, Tania Gibbin and Julie Railton.
“Indeed, extraordinary efforts were made to deliver IT equipment to every family that required it. This means that we are now building on the learning through both lockdowns – rather than catching up on lost learning.
“On these occasions I would normally give a brief report on exam performance. However, on this occasion I will simply say that all our students achieved incredibly well.
“The fact that virtually everyone has moved on to their first choice university, apprenticeship or college destination is testament to this.
“Sport is one of our major endeavours and it is good to see so many past and present students continue to achieve national success.
“Our usual involvement in competitive fixtures and tournaments was put on hold, but unbelievably, we had more students than ever participating in after school sports clubs last year.
“In the summer term, there were some evenings where over 100 students were involved in a range of different clubs including rounders, tennis, athletics and cricket.”
Music-wise, the school participated in the Workington rotary virtual young musician of the year competition where Natalie Lee and Imogen Cockbain (who were playing as guests arrived) won the instrumental and vocal sections.
“People ask what makes Keswick School so special. The answer is twofold: a unique ethos and the dedication of enthusiastic specialist staff,” added Mr Jackson.
He said Sue Richardson, Kath Mather, Dave Troman, Tim Mather and Ian Turnbull, who all retired this academic year, made a terrific contribution to the school and taught many of our current students and, in Dave’s case, some of their parents too.
“Their enthusiasm and dedication is an example to the rest of us.
“I’d like to thank our directors and governors. They give their time generously to support the school.
“I would also like to thank our many supporters but especially the Rotary Club of Keswick, Keswick Music Society, Keswick Rugby club, Keswick Cricket club, Keswick Football club, the Lakeland Rowing club, Lamont Pridmore and the Keswick Lions. Your help is valued and appreciated
“Finally, I would like to thank our parents. You live and breathe the ups and downs but the support and encouragement you give to these young people makes a tremendous difference,” said Mr Jackson.
Guest speaker, Matt Harper-Hardcastle, was a student at Keswick School between 2000 and 2007.
Matt’s passion for theatre started at the age of eight and he trained and worked with the National Youth Theatre. He went on to study at York St John University where he graduated with a first class degree in performance theatre.
He has worked as an actor, artistic director, acting coach, writer, tutor, producer and programme manager. He is an experienced theatre maker and project manager, working in youth theatre, mental health, disabilities and access/inclusion.
Matt completed his MA in applied theatre in 2018, and was appointed the role of creative engagement manager at Leeds Grand Theatre and the performance manager at Parents and Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA).
He published his first book, The Day the Alien Came in 2019.
