On Saturday 5th July, our school community came together for Celebration Day – a special occasion dedicated to recognising and honouring all that our pupils have achieved this year.
The day began with Senior School pupils and their families arriving to enjoy refreshments on the lawn before gathering in the Sports Hall for the Senior School Prize Giving ceremony. Pupils were celebrated for their academic successes, personal development, and commitment to Rookwood’s ASPIRE values. Musical performances from our talented students added to the sense of pride and reflection throughout the morning.
During the ceremony, Mr Robinson, our Headteacher, inspired pupils with his powerful message to “Be a verb – define yourself not just by what you are, but by what you do. Dare to be ambitious for the good that you can do. Be kinder than you need to be, as you never know what someone else is going through.” The audience also heard from Mr Milner-Smith, former Headteacher and now Director of Education at Inspired Learning Group, who spoke fondly of Rookwood and shared an encouraging message: pupils should never measure themselves only by what others applaud, as success is also often found in the smaller, quieter acts that make a real difference.
We also took the opportunity to say farewell to our wonderful Deputy Head (Academic), Mrs Jellard, who is leaving Rookwood at the end of term to spend time with her husband, currently on active service with the Armed Forces. We wish her every happiness as she considers her next steps.
At lunchtime, Prep and Senior School families gathered on the lawn to enjoy a delicious lunch and refreshments together. It was a great opportunity for families to meet informally with each other and with staff, accompanied by musical performances in the background.
The afternoon saw our Prep School Prize Giving ceremony, where pupils were honoured for their hard work, progress, and achievements this year. Mrs Carolyn Hardiman, one of our Governors, gave an inspirational talk encouraging pupils to never give up, sharing a quote from Nelson Mandela that has always stayed with her: “I never lose. I either win or I learn.”
Performances included an impressive original song written and performed by Year 6 about their time at Rookwood, as well as a Voice of Thanks from our School Captain and Vice School Captain. In a particularly touching moment, Mrs Nias, our Assistant Head of Prep School, shared a heartfelt rap created in memory of Mrs Elaine Ozanne, our beloved Head of Prep, who sadly passed away in May. Read it here.
The Sports Hall was filled with applause as awards were presented and performances showcased the talents, confidence, and gratitude of our younger pupils.
Celebration Day is a highlight of the school calendar, bringing together pupils, families, and staff to reflect on the year’s successes, honour those who have guided and inspired us, and look ahead with ambition, kindness, and purpose.
We thank all our families for their support and partnership this year and wish everyone a restful, happy summer break.
