Stars of the School Shine at King Alfred’s Awards Evening (By Lizzi, 11 and Demi,13)
By Lizzi (11) and Demi (13) Jill Dando News Reporters at The King Alfred School Academy
The King Alfred School Academy hosted its annual Awards Evening this week, a night dedicated to celebrating the achievements of its students.
Head Students Emily, Mia, Bea, and Lincoln led the event, warmly welcoming parents, staff, and guests before announcing the awards that recognised outstanding commitment and determination across the school community.
The guest of honour was Andy Ballard, a former teacher who now works with the Highbridge Area Food Bank.
Andy encouraged students to make the most of the opportunities offered by school life. He reminded them to “never give up” and reassured them that “you can always overcome obstacles.”
He emphasised three key ingredients for success: "hard work, an open attitude to learning, and persistent determination.” Cllr Mike Facey also shared his praise for the school, describing TKASA as having “upstanding teachers and excellent students.”
There were awards across all subjects, recognising excellence in KS3, KS4, and KS5. The KS4 Head of Year Award was awarded to Zoe, who was congratulated for her hard work, determination, and resilience throughout her GCSE years.
She is now continuing her studies at Weston College, pursuing A Levels.
The KS5 Head of Year Award was awarded by Mr Radnidge to Sam Smith, praised for his “commitment to justice.” He is now studying Law at the University of Cambridge.
In addition, enrichment awards were presented, including recognition for the Duke of Edinburgh programme: Kira for completing her Bronze and Silver awards, and Olivia for achieving her Gold award in record time.
Special awards were also presented for sporting achievement. Helen Pardy awarded the Sports Excellence Award to Lily-May, while Julian Stearnes presented his award to Lukas, celebrating their dedication in physical education.
Mr Milford, Head Teacher, presented the KS4 Headteacher’s Award to Antony who achieved outstanding GCSE results, including “five Grade 9s, two Grade 8s and two Distinction Stars”.
He praised Antony’s ability to balance academics with wider commitments, noting his role as Head Student and participation in the school’s drama production Grease. Antony currently studies A Levels in Maths, Biology and Chemistry at the school’s Sixth Form Centre.
The KS5 Headteacher’s Award was awarded to Lucas who achieved fantastic A Level results in Maths, Further Maths and Chemistry, securing “two A stars and one A grade – a superb set of results evidencing his academic ability, commitment to hard work and resilience.”
Mr Milford also acknowledged Lucas’ wider contributions to school life over seven years, where he was described as “a model student.” Lucas is now studying Chemical Engineering at Imperial College in London.
The Community Service Award was presented to Dawson who excelled academically and contributed widely across school and community life.
From interviewing high‑profile figures through the Jill Dando News Centre to providing technical expertise for productions like Grease and Sister Act, his impact was extensive.
Dawson also supported local shows, earned a Civic Youth Award, and served as both Head Student and Vice President.
As Mr Milford reflected, “Very rarely do you have the pleasure of watching a student contribute so much in so many different ways.”
Mr Milford congratulated students, reminding them that their success is “a powerful milestone” and urging them to use the confidence gained to push boundaries in the future.
He thanked parents and families for their unwavering support, staff for their passion and commitment, and guest speaker Andy Ballard, Head Students, and organisers for making the evening a success.
