Dowdales School at Dalton hosted its annual prizegiving ceremony last night.

Students, teachers, parents and carers gathered to honour students who had achieved excellence in academics, sport and extracurricular activities throughout the year. One student from each year group was also awarded the distinguished honour of being named Lancaster University Student of the year. Some of this year the winners were, Amy Jones from Year Seven, Erin Pennington for Year Nine and Ellie Blowers in Year Ten.

The theme of this year’s ceremony was ‘Changing Times, Constant Values.’

Dowdales School head teacher Julie O’Connor told those gathered: "At Dowdales, we are driven by a set of values that everyone in school shares. This is what makes our school stand apart from the rest. In times of change, those values become even more important.

“They become the touchstones for decision-making, for school improvement that will continue to take the school forward.

The head introduced a full review of the year’s events and presented the prize winners from all year groups with certificates and trophies.

Those in attendance also heard from the executive officer from the Furness Education Consortium, Elaine Foylan, who gave an inspiring speech about community and achievement.

Guests were treated to a number of student performances throughout the evening.

They heard a recital of Clare de Lune on piano and enjoyed some impressive dance routines from Dowdales Youth Dance group.

There was also a performance of hits from the Greatest Showman, which has become an instant favourite among families for its positive message and excellent soundtrack.

‘Tightrope’ and ‘This is Me were both heard on the night, with Year Seven giving a rendition of ‘This is Me,’ an inspiring song which encourages children to be true to themselves and embrace their individuality.

Other performances included the Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Pro Excel Arts Dance Team and Boys Dancers among various other contributions.

The ceremony was said to be a huge success and fantastic evening of celebration and entertainment for everyone involved.