STUDENTS were praised for their contribution to their school and community at an annual prize-giving ceremony.

The Sir John Colfox Academy celebrated the house prize-giving awards, with the Toro house taking the top prize - having won the X Factor competition, along with cross country, cricket, basketball, languages and the overall cup for sports day.

Headteacher Kay Taylor told students how important participation is in preparing for the job market.

She said: "There are so many opportunities to develop skills and attributes which will give you the edge in employability terms.

"We are so proud of all of you who have displayed such outstanding leadership skills and who have helped the team out even when you knew you were not the best or likely to win. Taking part and having a go is really important."

Adler house were runners up having won the drama cup, the tug of war, boys rugby, the English challenge cup, and the music cup. Jessica Tewson, who won the English challenge cup, received widespread praise for her flash fiction piece.

Hinomaru and Fleur de Lys also had their successes with Hinomaru house winning the sewing bee, girls football, and the rounders cup - while Fleur de Lys won the science cup, the maths cup, and boys football.

The house prizegiving also recognises outstanding achievement for individual students who have gone above and beyond in terms of supporting others.

Jack Cullingford won the leadership award. He has been a driving force in the success of the anti-bullying ambassadors group and he has shown exemplary leadership skills in supporting the group of ambassadors, in leading training and in supporting those students who are vulnerable.

Chloe Amber Cash was awarded the Roger Draper award for being an effective house buddy. Chloe has been supporting a younger student and her work has made a real difference.

Amber Thomas was awarded the community award, presented by Cllr Maggie Ray for all her work volunteering in the community, supporting at summer schools, raising money and giving up her time for others.

Chairman of governors Martin Stones thanked all the local sponsors for helping the prizegiving go ahead.

"These local businesses have given generously of their time and money and it was again a real pleasure to see them supporting the students of the school" he said.

“The team spirit within the houses and the school was very evident and the pride of the students in their success was a pleasure to see.”