POINTS made prizes for students at Wey Valley School's leavers' graduation ceremony.

The success of year 11 high flyers at the Wey Valley School was described by head of year Gill Himsworth as 'outstanding'.

A newly-introduced 'points for prizes' scheme rewards students' academic progress and achievement throughout the school year as well as their commitment to the school community.

Head of upper school at Wey Valley Clive Burgess, who initiated the scheme, said: "A considerable amount of success has been generated during the system's first year in practice.

Mr Burgess added: "The aim of the points scheme is to ensure that students remain focused on their academic studies and attend regularly.

"The incentives the 'points for prizes' system offers have seen a significant improvement in attendance especially.

"Also, students' invitation to the prom depends upon a positive attitude to learning."

Points are credited through staff referrals for an excellent standard of coursework and exceptional effort as well as extra curricular activities such as The Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Students saw their hard work made worthwhile at the ceremony.

Visiting guest speaker and former student of the school Tim Clarke presented certificates and prizes alongside headteacher Philip Thomas, who presented the headteacher's awards.

Parents were invited and the programme included talks from each year eleven tutor and a review of the year by Mrs Himsworth.

Parents and senior staff were also treated to musical pieces performed and sung by year eleven students Kit Sarginson and Belinda Frith, accompanied by Jake Rowley and Callan Milward.

The winner of the top prize was Sophie Lewis, with Alice Lewis coming in second place.

At the end of the ceremony, student Ryan Elkins, who was the top achieving boy, gave the vote of thanks to Mr Clarke, while Sophie presented him with a bottle of wine.

Mrs Himsworth said: "Our year 11 students are an outstanding group who have shown great commitment to the school and the community.

"I am proud to be associated with them and their achievements."