ACHE Celebration Evening

We were delighted to welcome 36 students to our ACHE Mentors’ Graduation Dinner, an evening of celebration as our wonderful Year 12 students dressed for the occasion and gathered for a special banquet to recognise their hard work over the last six months.

It was a pleasure to welcome guest speaker Dr Costa Manolchev (C001), who delivered an inspiring after-dinner speech. He commended our mentors for all they have already achieved and encouraged them to carry their learning forward: “You are leaving the ACHE Programme having developed real skills – in mentoring, in listening, in leadership. Those skills matter. People like you make a difference to people like me.” Profound words for our Year 12s. He ended by encouraging them to live a meaningful life: “A meaningful life is its own reward.”

Following the speeches, our mentors received their certificates from the Head amidst smiles and warm applause. And it is well deserved! Over the past six months, they have committed their time to understanding the challenges young people face today and how best to support them through thoughtful, effective pastoral care. Their training has included developing active listening skills, exploring leadership, understanding neurodiversity, building healthy relationships, and much more.

Coordinated by our Chaplain, Rev Helen, and Health & Wellbeing Lead, Mel, the programme has nurtured a group of confident, compassionate young adults. We are incredibly proud of all they have achieved through their ACHE training and look forward to seeing them step into their roles as peer mentors for younger pupils across the school.

Special thanks go to Tora, Jackson, Aurie, Stella and Bea for organising such a memorable evening, and to our fantastic events and catering teams for their support. Thanks to you all, the evening truly sparkled.