FORMER Year 11 pupils were recognised for their sporting and academic achievements at two annual prize-giving ceremonies.

The Hurst Community College, in Baughurst, welcomed back more than 40 former pupils where prizes were awarded, sponsored by individuals and organisations including The Loddon Valley Lions, AWE, Baughurst Parish Council and Tadley Chamber of Trade.

Headtacher Roger Jones began the evening with a review of the year group’s success – of the 240 pupils, 69 per cent achieved five or more GCSEs between A* and C, including English and maths.

He also praised the pupils for their role as key ambassadors for the school when Ofsted visited last May and graded The Hurst as “good”.

Following this, former head girl Rebecca Halil addressed her peers, emphasising how strongly she felt they had benefitted from the sense of community at The Hurst. Rebecca later picked up the Gwen Richards English Language Trophy.

Prizes were awarded by former headteacher, Malcolm Christian, who retired at the same time as the year group left.

Mr Christian reflected on the significant changes within education that have happened in a relatively short space of time, and reiterated how important hard-work and good people-skills are for success in later life.

Mr Jones said: “This evening was a fitting celebration of the achievements of a wonderful set of young people. I’m particularly delighted that Mr Christian could join us for the evening as the year group always had enormous respect for him.”

A West End performer was the special guest at Everest Community Academy's prizegiving ceremony.

Matthew Goodgame, who has performed in productions including Starlight Express, CATS, Grease and Joseph, gave an inspiring speech about his exciting career, and also delivered a motivational message to the school leavers.

Principal Nick Price told students and their families and friends that the former Year 11s were a "fantastic year group".

Councillor Anne Court, the Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane was also welcomed as a special guest at the ceremony, and rounded off the evening by thanking those in attendance.