St Clement Danes School held their annual Speech Day on Friday 19 September in the newly refurbished Barbirolli Hall to celebrate achievements in the Academic year 2013/14.
As usual the day was split into a Junior Prize Giving in the morning, and a Senior Prize Giving in the afternoon. Every year the Speaker’s address is carried out by an Old Dane, who also presents the prizes. The Juniors’ special guest was Rachel Ansell QC, a Commercial Barrister who attended the school from 1984 to 1991. The Seniors listened to an anecdotal address by journalist Keith Somerville, who looked back on his time at St Clements Danes with humour and sentiment. There was also a notable performance of Nimrod by the School Orchestra which the Chair of Governors called, ‘moving.’ A total of 268 prizes was awarded over the day.
Dr Valentine’s address mentioned the incredible achievements throughout the year, both in school and out of school. A special award was given to the last year’s charities prefects who raised a record sum – all 8 received The Andrew Harvey Memorial Prize for Citizenship. Rosie Dowsing, the head of the team and Chorleywood Magazine reporter, went on to receive the Poppleton Prize for her effort and achievements. Read more about Rosie’s prize here: https://chorleywoodmagazine.co.uk/rosie-awarded-surprise-prize/.
Both Speech Days were brought to close by an address from this year’s Head boy and Head girl, Aaron Phillips and Maria Campanini, ending the day on a humorous note. The event was followed by a tea for prize winners and their families in the canteen which offered, the perfect photo opportunity. The day was a great success!
Juliet Flamank
Far left: Lunch spread for Speech Day guests 
Left: Keith Somerville presents a prize to Rosie Dowsing