England Rugby's Mark Wilson returns to Kirkbie Kendal school

A former head boy, Wilson took time out of training with Newcastle Falcons to present the prizes to students at Kirkbie Kendal and explain how its ethos helped him to achieve his dream of being part of a Six Nations winning England Rugby team.

Headteacher Mark Harris thanked students, parents and staff, and commented: “It has been another unusual year for all of us.

"For the second year running our students, parents/carers and staff have been magnificent in their adaptability and resilience in the face of the global pandemic.”

The school has a strong sporting tradition and it was fitting that Wilson should award prizes to Billy Blaydes (Y12) who competed in Junior Wimbledon this year and Caitlin Whitehead, who has played golf for England in competitions around the world despite the challenges of the pandemic.

WINNERS: Kirkbie Kendal Award Winners

Other starring athletes include Freddy Blaydes (Y10) who has competed in International Tennis Federation competitions around the world.

In football Clara Samson (Y10), playing for Blackburn Rovers U16, has helped them to win the North West league, Abbie Jones (Y11) has just signed for Preston adults and Aaliyah Pearson (Y7) has again been signed by Manchester United’s academy.

Following in Wilson’s footsteps, Aaron Stephens (Y11) and Reuben Dyer (Y10) were selected to train with Newcastle Falcons Academy. In athletics Annie Taylor (Y12) qualified for the Track and Field (Hurdles) and Combined Events National Finals.

Despite the difficulties of lockdown, the school undertook remote learning as the mainstay of their provision for a third of the year.

Students did not sit normal exams but Year 11 and 13 were praised for their grades this year and throughout their school careers.

GUITAR: Katie Miller performing at the Prizegiving Event cropped

Mr Harris added: “Equally important is the celebration of our students being well-rounded, caring, courteous and considerate young people.

"Students in all years have consistently demonstrated their considerate and caring attitudes, particularly in their support of one another during the national lockdown and our period of remote learning.”

Students have worked on projects for Young Minds, Papyrus, and Children in Need.

Mr Harris added: "The school council has organised collections for the Kings Food Bank. Students have made a significant, positive contribution to the environment by increasing school recycling and raising environmental awareness."