Thursday 13th November marked the return of our Class of 2025 for their GCSE Presentation Evening – a special opportunity to recognise their successes and reconnect with students who have since moved on to Sixth Forms, colleges, or apprenticeships.
The evening, organised by Mrs Bone, opened with warm words from Heads of School, Mrs Galley and Dr Hone. Both reflected on the group’s commitment, perseverance, and achievements throughout their time at Northgate, acknowledging how much they had grown both academically and personally.
GCSE certificates were then presented by Head of Year, Mr Stirling. In addition, Progress Awards were handed out to those who had made exceptional strides from their starting points – a true testament to determination and hard work.
Rocky Barnes – Moqtader Ahmady – Daniel Aitken – Alec Atkins – Mackenzie Brewster – Ben Chisholm – Jemima Cunningham – Evie Cutbush – Henry Drury – Wyn Evans – Daniel Fenby – Jack Ford – Phoebe Fulcher – Abi-Louise Goodwin Nelson – Anais Hall – Nathan Hoare – Ellis Hughes – Oscar Jarrett – Joshua Jasinski – Reece Johnson – Kaylee King – Harriet Long – Lewis Mayhew – Jack McGregor – Esme Mottley – Brooklyn Okeke – Kasey Phillips – Brayden Rice – Sophie Roberts – Ethan Rose – Thomas Sampford – Austin Sellers – Maisie Smith – Archie Strutt – Leah-Faith Taylor – Kyra Travers
The keynote speech came from Cameron Mason, a former Northgate student. Cameron spoke fondly of his time at Northgate and Dereham Sixth Form and how the support of his teachers helped him with the challenges he faced, including his dyslexia. He spoke about the tools that Northgate gave him for life which included teamwork, confidence good communication skills, respect and perhaps most importantly for him, resilience. Having now completed an undergraduate degree (BSc) in Politics and International Relations, Cameron went on to study for a Masters (MA) in International Law (LLM). He closed with some advice for students based on his time at Northgate – not to wish time away and savour every milestone, never underestimate the power of teamwork and what you can achieve yourself and finally ask for a take all the advice and support you can.
Following this, Subject Awards were presented by Mr Stirling. Each Head of Department selected a student who had demonstrated excellence, dedication, and a passion for their subject. Whether through outstanding results, creativity, or commitment to improvement, each winner embodied what it means to be a true learner.
Congratulations to Our Subject Award Winners:
- Art: Robyn Hart
- Fine Art: Amilie Anderton
- Religious Studies: Taylor Withers
- French: Jazmine Hogg
- History: Esme Mottley
- Physical Education: Ethan Rose
- Design Technology: Austin Sellers
- Photography: Agata Krotlinska
- Textiles: Jemima Cunningham
- Dance: Kaylee King
- English Literature: Maisie Smith
- Geography: Chloe Knights
- Mathematics: Wyn Evans
- Food & Nutrition: Daisy Kavanagh
- Spanish: Kyra Travers
- English Language: Alec Atkins
- Science: Rocky Barnes
- Computer Science: Dylan Melia
- Music: Harriet Long
- Graphics: Mia Santos
- Drama: Henry Drury
Then an extra special achievement was recognised. A prestigious certificate that recognises our students’ incredible achievements in GCSE Photography was awarded to a number of students. The Royal Photographic Society, an esteemed organisation with a rich history of promoting excellence in photography, awards certificates to students who have shown exceptional skill, a profound work ethic, and commitment to artistic expression.
We celebrated these students not only for their accomplishments in photography but also for their dedication and integrity. The Royal Photographic Society certificate is a mark of distinction, honouring their work which reflects hours of thoughtful effort, perseverance and a willingness to experiment. Mrs Wright from the Art and Design Department was on hand to present these certificates, the first time this affiliation has occurred.
Congratulations to:
Sarah Bales – Kesh Winiarska – Evie Cutbush – Esme Mottley – Daniel Aitken – Shannon Barnett – Maisie Smith
Mr Stirling, Head of Year 11, spoke about his time as their Head of Year at Northgate. He mentioned how proud he was of them as a year group, and the progress they had made. It hadn’t been a smooth ride all the time but in Year 11 they really stepped up. He reminisced about students who had created fake money for him – ‘pounds stirling’ with his photo on and commented that his new Year group have upped their game with even better currency! He wished all students well in their futures and reminded them to keep in touch – it’s always lovely to hear how students get on after their time at Northgate.
The event also recognised the Year 11 Leadership Team for their commitment and contribution to school life. Mr Mason, Director of Education at Unity Education Trust, presented the Head Teacher’s Awards to:
- Head Boy: Henry Drury
- Head Girl: Kyra Travers
- Deputy Head Boys: Wyn Evans and Nathan Hoare
- Deputy Head Girls: Tallulah Goodwin and Maisie Smith
The evening concluded with the presentation of special prizes on behalf of Tim Kinnaird, the Governors, and Trustees — honouring outstanding personal progress, resilience, integrity, and contribution to the wider community.
- Contribution to the Community: Taylor Withers
- Governors’ Prize for Personal Progress: Miami Standing
- Trustees’ Award for Resilience: Sam Cox and Kasey Phillips
- Tim Kinnaird Award for Integrity: Ethan Rose
It was a truly special evening celebrating a remarkable group of young people. Congratulations once again to the Class of 2025 — we are so proud of all that you have accomplished. As you move forward into the next stage of your journey, may you continue to build on the friendships, lessons, and experiences you gained here at Northgate. Your future is full of possibility, and we can’t wait to see all that you achieve.
