Sixth form students waved goodbye to St John’s in Marlborough and celebrated the end of two years of hard work with a Year 13 prom last Friday.

For the third year in a row the school’s leavers’ dinner was held at Alexandra House Hotel in Wroughton.

The sun was shining as the young adults arrived in style to party the night away for the last time as classmates.

The girls were elegant in ball gowns and cocktail dresses, while the boys were dressed to impress in tuxedos and suits.

The evening began with a farewell speech from director of sixth form Kay McArdle, in which she reviewed some of the highlights of the year and thanked students for their contributions. Next came student presentations led by head boys Chris Baker and George Martin-Johnson and head girls Tara Colsell-Hawes and Abi Kromer. The 110 students enjoyed anecdotes, including a poem, Oscar-themed awards and reflections on the last couple of years.

Students concluded the speech section of the evening by wishing everyone good luck for the future, thanking staff for all their support and presenting gifts.

A three-course meal and a disco, with music provided by Year 12 student Ed Crawley, followed.

Lynne Cope, deputy director of sixth form, said: “They all looked stunning. The atmosphere was warm and friendly and the behaviour of the students was exemplary. Students said it was a great evening and really enjoyable.

“Staff said it was a lovely occasion and a real pleasure to spend the evening with such fantastic young people.”

St John's Picture Gallery