Another memorable year

The Mount held a special event in Southport to pay tribute to the achievements of its pupils over the past 12 months.

For the third year in a row, the Atkinson Arts Centre was the venue for the junior prize-giving ceremony organised by the Blundellsands primary school.

And rather than a guest speaker this year, the prizes were presented by Mount headmaster Michael Collins who was leaving the school to take up a headship at a school overseas.

As well as being able to bid a fond farewell to Mr Collins, the packed audience at the Atkinson heard that The Mount had again achieved excellent academic results during this school year, with 100 per cent of Year 6 pupils meeting or exceeding expected levels for their age, an impressive achievement in the light of the increased difficulty of assessments this year.

A wide range of successes in music and sport were also recognised at the prize-giving event, which also featured performances by the school’s concert band, orchestra, show choir, recorder ensemble and Year 5 and 6 choir.

In addition, Year 6 pupils presented a highly entertaining drama performance about the transition to secondary school called ‘Big School Nightmares’, which was directed by Mr Collins’ wife Karen.

Looking back at the last 12 months Mr Collins said: “This annual event is a great way for us to recognise the hard work and achievements of our pupils in many fields over the past year.

“I would like to salute each and every one of the children – and the staff and families who support them – and thank them for their contribution to making the school such a special place.

“I leave The Mount with incredibly fond memories of my time here, and wish everyone associated with the school every success in the future”.

St Mary’s College principal Mike Kennedy said: “Michael has been headmaster for 14 years and The Mount has gone from strength to strength over this period.

“He has led the school with warmth and a fantastic sense of humour, and been loved by pupils and families alike. He will be much missed.”

It’s been a busy time for prize-giving events at St Mary’s, with the infants at The Mount being honoured at an in-school ceremony, and a separate event for youngsters at the Bright Sparks Nursery held at the senior school recently.