A TRIO of talented students proved to be impossible to separate as they shared the limelight in a prestigious annual award.
Northallerton School and Sixth Form College students Laura West, Dan Henry and Eleanor Reynolds each received the John Dennis Award, presented every year in memory of the former North Yorkshire county councillor, community figure and chairman of governors.
The principal, staff and fellow students nominated them for their attitude, commitment and honourable conduct which had contributed most to the character and reputation of the school.
For Dan the accolade was an opportunity to dedicate his efforts to his mum Diane, who died earlier this year, and thank his year manager Tom Bunn and friends and colleagues for their support.
“Mum died suddenly and everyone was very supportive which really helped me get through it,” said Dan, of Romanby, who plans to return to Northallerton Sixth Form to study A Levels in drama, English and RE.
Assistant principal and head of Key Stage 4 Ben Jones said: “Dan faced significant challenges this year but overcame them with maturity. He is utterly dependable, always ready with a smile and prepared to see the best in all people and situations.”
The 16-year-old hopes to become an actor one day and in the summer will attend a West End summer school at H M Theatre, London, to hone his performance skills. “I am really looking forward to it,” he said.
A special awards assembly heard that Laura had been an asset to the school since the day she began.
Mr Jones said: “She is a compassionate, empathetic young person with enormous generosity of spirit. She is a rock to her friends.”
The 15-year-old, of Romanby, who plans to study A Levels in history RE and English, said: “I feel so happy to receive this award which recognises my efforts.”
Eleanor won high praise for her commitment to her studies, the choir and school productions. Mr Jones said: “She is a delight to teach, know, watch on stage or simply observe in her interactions with staff and students.”
The 16-year-old, of Romanby, who will study history, English and drama at sixth form, said: “It’s lovely to be recognised especially as I am quiet and it shows I’m not just the person sitting at the back.”
Mr Bunn said he was proud to be associated with the year group. He told them: “Be true to yourself, never accept mediocrity and feel proud that you have left an imprint on Northallerton School and Sixth Form College.”