Chigwell celebrates its pupils during Speech Day

10 July 2023
Written by Mrs Angela Patrikios

Speech Day 2023 was a day to remember.

Distinguished guests, proud parents, and enthusiastic pupils gathered in St Mary’s Church for a moving commemoration service by The Reverend Malcolm Macdonald as part of our annual Speech Day celebrations.

Following the service, guests moved to Art School, where they had a chance to see the outstanding Art and Design and Technology showcase of this year’s pieces created by all year groups which were beautifully displayed in the gallery spaces.

The exhibition was followed by speeches in the marquee where the Chair of our Governing Body, Mrs Serrelli, delivered a warm welcome, and then the Head, Mr Damian King, reflected on his first year being Head of Chigwell School, inspired us through his speech and celebrated the impressive successes of our pupils and school community.

The highlight of the event was the Prize Giving ceremony, where pupils were recognized for their remarkable achievements across various academic disciplines, sports, music, art, and co-curricular activities, as well as for their contribution to their houses over the past year.

The top accolades were presented by the guest of honour, award-winning saxophonist, Mrs YolanDa Brown who praised the winners for their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. The recipients of the prizes were met with applause as they took centre stage to receive their well-deserved honours. Mrs Brown also delivered an engaging and motivational speech and the prize-giving concluded with our Head pupil, Molly, delivering a heartfelt and inspirational speech.

At the end of the speeches, everyone dispersed on the grounds to enjoy afternoon tea and refreshments, where they had the opportunity to catch up and socialise.

The day was also a chance to say farewell to our Middle Sixth leavers, and staff that are retiring, who have contributed a huge amount to school life; we wish them every success in the future.

A big well done to all prize-winners, our guests and families that attended and thanks to everyone who contributed to making Speech Day 2023 so joyful and a special Chigwell School community event – we couldn’t be prouder!