Celebrating Our Year 13 Students: Prize Giving, Mass and Farewell Tea

The St Mary’s community recently gathered to celebrate our exceptional Year 13 students at their Prize Giving ceremony — a joyful and reflective event that marked the culmination of their time at school.

This special occasion honoured the academic achievements, personal growth and individual journeys of our Sixth Form students. Many have been part of our school since Year 7, and some since Junior School — making the event not just a farewell, but a celebration of years of learning, leadership and shared memories.

In her address, Mrs Helliar, Head, praised the students for their commitment to learning, their kindness to others, and the strength of character they’ve shown throughout their time at St Mary’s. She encouraged them to take their values with them as they step into the next chapter — whether that’s university, a gap year or new personal challenges.

Subject prizes and special awards were presented to recognise not only academic excellence, but also contributions to school life and the wider community. From science and humanities to creative arts and leadership, each award reflected the breadth of talent and spirit within this outstanding group of young women.

One of the most moving parts of the ceremony came in the tributes from tutors and students, filled with warmth, laughter and affection. They spoke of early morning revision sessions, enrichment opportunities, House events and friendships that have shaped their time here — and will stay with them long after they leave.

Throughout the celebration, the values at the heart of St Mary’s shone through:
Hard Work, Empathy, Adaptability, Responsibility and Thoughtfulness.
Our Year 13s have truly lived out these values — showing resilience in challenging times, supporting one another, and acting as role models across the school.

We are incredibly proud of each and every student in this cohort. They leave St Mary’s as confident, compassionate and capable young women — ready to make their mark on the world.

We look forward to following their journeys and welcoming them back in future as part of our ever-growing Panstonians alumnae community.

View the full gallery of photos here.