STUDENTS were recognised at a secondary school's annual awards ceremony, capping off an 'incredibly successful' academic year.

Students aged 11 to 15, in Years seven to 10, received recognition and rewards for their success at the Wey Valley School and Sports College in Weymouth.

Shields, trophies, cups and certificates were presented to pupils who had been nominated by teaching staff for high achievement or exceptional progress.

Students were also rewarded for accomplishments other than their academic achievements, which included seven awards from the head teacher Phil Thomas for progress, perseverance and personal endeavour.

Mr Thomas said: "This year has been one of incredible success and achievement by all."

He added: "Progress was not only recognised by Ofsted in November of last year but also confirmed by modular examination results, received already."

Winners included Paulina Wysocka, from Year 10, who was acknowledged for exceptional progress in technology.

David Grattidge, from Year 10, won three awards - exceptional progress in science, the Langford Cup for service to the school and a certificate for representing his year group on the school council.

Pupils in Years 7 and 8 received recognition and shook hands with guest Olly Bray.

Former Wey Valley pupil Mr Bray, who is an assistant headteacher at a Scottish school and leader with the Dorset Expeditionary Society, presented the awards to the lower year groups.

Presenting awards to students in years nine and 10 was guest and head of the Compass Centre, Alan Wood.

Overall, more than 200 students accepted awards and were acknowledged for their achievements.

Head teacher of the Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester Ian Melvin, vice principal of Weymouth College Paul Lonsdale and representatives from the Rotary Club, the Weymouth Lions and the UK Business and Professional Women's Federation Cup were all present at the ceremony.

Other highlights of the event included end of year reports from the head of each year group and musical interludes performed by singers in Year 7 and the choir, the Year 10 GCSE music group and the Wey Valley orchestra. Newly-elected head boy Warren Hicks and head girl Paige Noyce delivered the vote of thanks to close the ceremony.

Mr Thomas said: "These have certainly been proud moments, standing before so many successful students who have contributed to both the school and the wider community and performed at a very high level both here and abroad."