200 students in emotional farewell to school

MORE than 200 students were invited to the Year 11 “Leavers Afternoon” at Helsby High School to celebrate the end of their five years at the school and completion of their GCSEs
Year 11 form tutors and other staff distributed goodie bags containing hoodies and Prom tickets and many students used the time to say goodbye and thank you to staff.
They then used the rest of the time for the tradition of having their shirt signed.
Assistant head teacher James Cooney said: “We couldn’t have wished for better weather and the behaviour of the students was outstanding. “
The week culminated with the Prom at the Chester DoubleTree Hotel.
Teaching staff who supported the event, said they were amazed at the transformation of the students, who arrived in ball gowns and suits. There was a red carpet and “mocktail” entrance, leading on to the ballroom where students got settled for the awards of the night.
Head teacher John Dowler and Year Leader Miss Wilkes, both gave emotional speeches and this was rounded off by rapturous applause from the staff and students.
A number of students received awards and gift vouchers, along with the two best dressed students being crowned. The night continued with an American buffet and disco.
Mr Cooney added: “On behalf of the staff and governors I would like to congratulate Year 11 for their hard work and commitment to school life in their last five years at Helsby. We hope to see many of them return to Helsby Sixth Form in September and wish those who are not returning to us, the very best of luck in their future careers.”