PUPILS at Rowdeford School, near Devizes, had a special end-of-year assembly and prize-giving recently when they were visited by a Paralympic gold champion and an education expert.

Prizes were presented at the assembly by 23 year-old former pupil turned Paralympic swimmer, Aaron Moores MBE, who won gold in Rio last year and appeared in this year’s New Year’s Honours list. The school also heard from Dr Neil Hawkes, founder of the International Values Education Trust, who inspired the specialist school’s curriculum.

Rowdeford spokesperson Liz Clarkson said, “Dr Hawkes spoke with great passion about the importance of positive role models in our lives and the positive impact that a drama teacher had on him personally.

“It was an incredible surprise to have Aaron Moores, a former pupil attend. He has a very busy training schedule but he managed to squeeze in a visit to the school to present prizes; he is an amazing role model for our pupils.”

“The highlight of the ceremony was when Connie Orman, a Year 11 pupil, walked in from stage left to receive her leaver’s book. A few years ago we were told that she wouldn’t be able to walk after an operation that had gone wrong. It was such an inspirational moment and she was given a standing ovation!”

The assembly was held to bid farewell to school leavers in their final year, and to celebrate the achievements of pupils throughout the year groups with a prize-giving ceremony.

Headteacher Ingrid Sidmouth, who retires at the end of July after 16 years at the school said, “Our pupils behaved incredibly well and really enjoyed the ceremony. We were so lucky to have such exciting guests. It was a great send off for our Year 11 leavers who will be going on to college and a wonderful way to celebrate the achievements of all of our pupils.”

Dr Neil Hawkes added: “I was so pleased to play a small part in the event. It was an honour to be with the wonderful school and a privilege to present the prizes with gold medalist Aaron Moores.”