Roots of Excellence, Branches of Achievement: The 66th Annual Speech Night at St Christopher's

At the beginning of a new year, parents, staff, pupils and students of St Christopher's CE High School gathered together for the 66th Annual Speech Night. The event, held in the assembly hall, celebrated the achievements of the Year 11 pupils and Upper Sixth (Year 13) students who had concluded their studies in 2024. It was a night of reflection, inspiration, and pride for the entire school community.
The evening was presided over by the Chair of Governors Fr David Arnold and headmaster, Mr R D Jones, whose opening address set the tone for the occasion. His words resonated with gratitude for the students’ hard work, the unwavering support of their families, and the dedication of the teaching staff. "This night is about celebrating excellence, perseverance, and the community that makes St Christopher's what it is—a beacon of hope and learning and an inspirational Church school."
If you received one of our special awards - well done! How satisfying to know that you are joining the list of names of those who came before you as part of the community of St Christopher’s. We hope that being recognised in this way is as pleasing for you as it was for them.
The highlight of the night was the presence of the distinguished guest speaker, The Rt Revd Dr. Joe Kennedy, Bishop of Burnley. The awards ceremony followed, with the Bishop presenting certificates, trophies, and commendations to students who had excelled academically, athletically, and in community service. Among the notable recipients were Molly McCarthy from Year 11, who received the ‘School Prize for Academic Merit’, and Elliott Moseley, who was presented with the ‘Alasdair Coates Award for Best Academic Results’ for his tireless dedication to his studies in the Sixth Form.
The evening also featured musical interludes performed by the Sixth Form Cantores, with some beautiful singing that brought a smile to the faces of the attendees.
Former pupils, students and their families filled the hall with applause and laughter, sharing memories and marvelling at the accomplishments of the current generation. For many alumni, it was a chance to reconnect with old friends and mentors while reflecting on the enduring legacy of the school.
The event concluded with the school hymn ‘Christopher’s Story’ and a vote of thanks by the current Head Boy and Girl of Sixth Form, followed by refreshments in the school dining room, where conversations buzzed with pride and nostalgia. As the crowd dispersed, there was a shared sense of belonging to something greater—a community rooted in faith, learning, and a commitment to excellence.
For St Christopher's CE High School and Sixth Form, the 66th Annual Speech Night was not just a celebration of achievements past, but a reaffirmation of its mission to inspire and equip students for lives of purpose and impact.
In the words of our Foundation scripture (Psalm 1:3):
‘That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither - whatever they do prospers.’
R D Jones
Headmaster
You can view more photos from the night on our Facebook page via this link to the album.