The successes of students past and present were recognised at a Celebration of Achievement evening held at Ormiston Ilkeston Enterprise Academy.
Last year’s Year 11 students returned to receive certificates and prizes along with current Year 11 students.
The event was hosted by Principal Nia Smith and special guests included former Principal Dave Smith and Deputy Mayoress, Councillor Mary Hopkinson.
Miss Smith welcomed the guests, students, staff and families to the awards evening.
She said: “This is one of the best jobs that I get to do; to be able to celebrate the achievements and hard work of our young people. I would like to introduce our guests Deputy Mayoress, Councillor Mary Hopkinson and her consort and many of you will know Mr Smith. He is here to see his Year 11 students off into the world and I have come to see my Year 11 students prepare for being in this position next year.”
Certificates were handed out for achievement in core subjects 2015-2016 before a series of special awards were made.
Among them was the Governors Award for Excellence at Key Stage 4 which went to Wandile Ngcobo, the Danny Corns Award for Art which was given to Holli-Rhianne Patrick and the Ilkeston Round Table Prize for Achievement at A-level which was awarded to Georgia Griffin.
Mr Smith presented the special awards and gave a brief speech about each winner.
Talking about Holli-Rhianne, he said: “Holli was energetic and resourceful and thoroughly deserves the recognition. Her work was of a very high standard and she would always go the extra mile. She is now studying for a BA Honours in Fashion Design at Nottingham Trent University and has the opportunity to realise her dream.”
Deputy Mayoress, Councillor Hopkinson said she was delighted to attend the event.
She said: “What I would like to say to the students is that you are a credit to the school, your parents and yourselves. Hard work pays dividends and I would like to wish you all the success in the world.”
Miss Salt thanked everyone for coming and said: “Hard work conquers all, hard work and resilience. Ilkeston was founded on hard work and you are part of that hard work and effort leading to success.”