Parents, carers, families and friends packed Meadowgate Academy’s school hall for the first upper school presentation ceremony on July 17.

Wisbech Standard: Parents, carers, families and friends packed Meadowgate Academy’s school hall for the school’s presentation ceremony on Tuesday, July 17. Picture: SubmittedParents, carers, families and friends packed Meadowgate Academy’s school hall for the school’s presentation ceremony on Tuesday, July 17. Picture: Submitted (Image: Archant)

Students from Year 10 to 13 were in the spotlight when their achievements throughout the school year were highlighted and celebrated.

Certificates for academic achievement, community work, work experience and police cadets were presented by the Mayor of Wisbech, Councillor Peter Human, accompanied by the Lady Mayoress of Wisbech, Janet Tanfield.

The students were awarded academic certificates in AQA Unit Awards and OCR Life and Living Skills.

Wisbech Standard: Parents, carers, families and friends packed Meadowgate Academy’s school hall for the school’s presentation ceremony on Tuesday, July 17. Picture: SubmittedParents, carers, families and friends packed Meadowgate Academy’s school hall for the school’s presentation ceremony on Tuesday, July 17. Picture: Submitted (Image: Archant)

In Year 12, students attend a link course at the College of West Anglia where they experience college life, taught by college tutor James Back. Mr Back presented the students with a city and guilds qualification certificate.

Emma Bird, sixth form co-ordinator, said: “In years 12 and 13, the students can join the Police Cadets. We are the only police cadet unit based in a special school in the UK and are very proud of the work that they do for the school and the community.

“Cadets Sasha, Pagan and Kyron explained the work and training they have had this year. PSCO Lisa Mann thanked the group for their hard work and presented certificates.

Wisbech Standard: Parents, carers, families and friends packed Meadowgate Academy’s school hall for the school’s presentation ceremony on Tuesday, July 17. Picture: SubmittedParents, carers, families and friends packed Meadowgate Academy’s school hall for the school’s presentation ceremony on Tuesday, July 17. Picture: Submitted (Image: Archant)

“Staff members Helen Dennis and Anne Hancock were publically thanked for the support they give to the group.”

Community support leader Lizzie Wales received a bouquet of flowers and a public thank you for her support, advice and hard work to help set up the Squad and Choir.

In Year 13, students undertake work placements on a weekly basis. Fourteen students worked with nine employers to carry out the equivalent of 156 days of full time work this academic year.

Ms Bird added: “We would like to publically thank each and every member of staff at these placements that have made this happen, given our students the experience and chance to show what they are capable of and to see more than just their label of special needs or disability.

“It was a fantastic evening that rightly celebrated everything our students do.

“They lived up to the ambition of Believe, Achieve, Succeed. Everyone left with a smile and increased aspirations for their future.”