Now that we are well in to the first week of the school summer holidays, many former year 11 pupils will be preparing to take their next steps in their education or entering the work place for the first time.

One of the most memorable events during the final few months of year 11 is the prom, or leavers' ball and there were two spectacular nights for both John Ruskin School, based in Coniston, and Millom School.

Millom's year 11 class celebrated their prom on Friday 24 June and headed to the beautiful Muncaster Castle, over looking the Esk River from their prom. Luckily the weather stayed fine and the students were able to stretch their legs in the picturesque ground and pose for photographs.

All students went to a real real effort with their attire and it all were in extremely high spirits.

Jenna Carpenter a local photographer took some wonderful pictures both at school and at Muncaster Castle. Jenna said: "A fantastic evening and brilliant atmosphere for the Millom School Prom this year. All the students looked amazing, it was a pleasure to capture".

Later on in the evening, Millom named a Prom King and Queen and congratulated Jack Hoy and Jenny Williams on receiving these honours.

On Friday 17th June, John Ruskin School waved a fond farewell to their current Year 11 pupils. The day started as normal with GCSE Physics and ELBS exams but after the hard work was done, Year 11 had time to reflect on and celebrate their five amazing years as JRS students.

First of all, the pupils donned their leavers’ hoodies for a scenic trip on the gondola and a sweet treat or two from The Bluebird Café on the lake. The students were able to choose their ‘last supper’ in school and went for chicken nuggets, chips and beans all round when they returned from their cruise on Coniston water.

A leavers’ assembly followed with parents arriving to join in the celebrations. The school's headteacher Peter Blackburn presented certificates to prefects; students with outstanding attendance over the last five years and head boys and girls. Mr Blackburn said: "There was a lovely atmosphere at the assembly, Mr Walker said a few (mostly!) kind words about all the characters in Year 11 and outgoing head boys and girls Samantha Lafferty and Callum Slater delivered a witty speech about their time at JRS.

"Year 11 left the hall en masse for the very last time with rousing applause echoing in their ears then they hot footed it home to get ready for their prom at The Netherwood Hotel at Grange-over-Sands.

"It was a splendid evening – Year 11 wore their finery and arrived in everything from Porsches to tractors! There was a fruit punch on arrival, a three course meal and then lots of funky moves at the disco to dance away those calories.

"It was a wonderful way to celebrate how great it has been to see Year 11 reach the final chapter of their JRS story – we wish them all the very best for whatever the future holds and look forward to their results in the summer."

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