A FORMER pupil turned successful actress returned to her old school to speak at its 60th annual speech night and prize-giving evening.

Cartmel Priory CofE School’ welcomed Molly McGlynn to present awards to each pupil.

Afterwards, she recalled her fondest memories from her school days. She then provided an engaging and amusing account of her further education and career journey to becoming a successful actress, which was sometimes very challenging.

Most recently, Molly has performed a role in Coronation Street and will soon air in Jack Dee’s ITV comedy sit com, ‘Bad Move’.

Her overriding message to pupils was to choose a career doing something you love and to never give up on your dreams.

The Year 11 students that left in June 2018 returned to receive their GCSE certificates and a range of other awards. Examples include Aaron Dalton who picked up the Canon Thompson Cup - awarded to the scholar for the most outstanding achievement in academic work.

Philippa Bell, outgoing head girl, received The Edna Martland Award for the outstanding all-round pupil.

Philippa was also jointly awarded the Headteacher’s Prize with Troy Rawsthorn, outgoing head boy, in recognition of senior student duties.

Emma Walmsley received the Community Services Award for her guiding and charity work.

Max Leech won The William Wilson Memorial Student Prize, voted for by his peers for being the pupil that has shown friendliness, humour and created a sense of happiness amongst the year group.

Mikey Read received the HRH Watson Rose Bowl for his significant contribution to the school.

Two pupils, Jayden Boydell and Daniel Kearsley received the School Attendance Prize for not having a single day off in five years.

Headteacher Dr Paul Williams said: “We are very proud of you all and excited to see where your different careers and educational pathways take you in the future.

“Maybe it will be somewhere as exciting as Molly’s.”