Wirral: St John Plessington Catholic College awards evening

SJP awards evening

St John Plessington Catholic College, in Bebington on the Wirral, honoured students' achievements with an incredible awards evening celebration. The school was joined by a special guest speaker, Andy Grant; a former soldier who has overcome significant challenges and dedicated his life to motivating and empowering others.

Andy's journey exemplifies the college's values of resilience and determination and highlights the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Andy spoke passionately about his life experiences and shared encouraging words to students on how to pursue their dreams and never give up, no matter what challenges they face.

The celebration presented awards across individual subject areas and recognised students for their outstanding efforts and subsequent achievements in that subject, these students were nominated by their class teachers and heads of department.

Awards were given across all subject areas and included awards specific to students who studied certain subjects at GCSE and A-level.

Year 13 students from the 2023/24 academic year were also invited to the celebration and were presented with their Level 3 certificates to honour the final phase of their education at St John Plessington (SJP).

The school also paid tribute to the students who have made outstanding contributions to wider school life throughout the whole year with the pastoral awards. The winners were each nominated by heads of learning and learning coaches, a group of pastoral leaders at the school.

With additional awards categories celebrating achievements across physical education and performing arts, there were plenty of opportunities for students to receive some much-deserved recognition and praise.

A section of the event was dedicated to students who have excelled in a subject area, championed positive change, and developed as leaders.

Gabriela Hyde, a Year 11 student at SJP, was awarded the ECO Award for her continued commitment to raising awareness for environmental issues within school and the wider community.

Gabriela is an active member of the farm club and eco club, representing the school on the School Sustainability Network, ran by Chester Zoo. Most recently, Gabriela was selected by Chester Zoo to represent the local region at the UK School Sustainability Network (SSN) event.

Speaking on her award win, Gabriela said: "I am so pleased, I was proud to pick up this award as we have worked really hard with SSN event and Wirral Eco Council to look at ways of improving awareness of sustainability and a greener future.

"The award means a lot to me because despite losing my dad in June, I have found the strength to keep focused on work with the eco group on such an important cause."

The final award of the evening and most highly anticipated, the St John Plessington Award, is open to all students, with nominations considered from all staff.

Sebastian McArdle was crowned the winner of the SJP award 2024 for his positive attitude to learning. Sebastian was praised by school leaders for his ability to do everything with a smile, and for being a positive role model to his peers.

Sebastian said: "I am really happy, it was such a surprise to pick up this award as I didn't know this was what I was getting on the night. I'm really proud to receive the SJP award as I have worked hard in my subjects and in other areas, such as representing the school in football and other sports. I hope to continue to be a role model for younger students."

Headteacher at St John Plessington, Mr Peadar McLoughlin, said: "I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and admiration for each and every one of our students. The talent, dedication and passion demonstrated by our award recipients is nothing short of extraordinary.

"Our awards evening is more than just recognising student achievements; it is a celebration of the human spirit and the pursuit of excellence at our school. The diversity of accomplishments reflects the rich tapestry of our community and the magnitude of its influence.

"From everyone at St John Plessington, I want to congratulate our winners and praise them for their commitment to their craft, goals, and communities - you are the beating heart of our school - well done."

St John Plessington Catholic College is situated on Old Chester Road, Bebington. The SJP community is a place where all are respected, celebrated and encouraged to fulfil their true potential.

St John Plessington Catholic College is part of Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust.

LINKS

St John Plessington Catholic College: www.stjohnplessington.com/

Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust: www.hfcmat.com/