St Aidan’s Academy head boy and girl Lewis Scott, 15, and Chloe Nevison, 15, both of Darlington wear their Year 11 privilege tie with pride
STUDENTS have forged new ties with their learning after being presented with a symbol of care, respect and responsibility.
Year 11 pupils at St Aidan’s Academy, Darlington, each received their own individual privilege tie in a special school assembly to mark the final year of their secondary education.
Presenting the ties to the 122 students, head of Year 11 Chris Dodd said: “There has been a lot of anticipation leading up to our tie ceremony, which is one of our academy’s highest honours and one that really sets Year 11 students apart.
“There is real status attached to students who wear the tie, including respect for themselves, each other and staff, of care for younger students who look up to the older pupils and also a responsibility to live up to the very high standards that we set here at St Aidan’s.
“This year group has the chance to be one that breaks the mould, to be the history makers of the future and wearing the tie shows that they are taking the first steps to making that happen.”
As well as showing seniority within school, the privilege tie, which was designed by students themselves, is also a passport to the Year 11 school prom and end of year hoody.
If any student fails to live up to the expectations and behavioural standards set by the academy their tie may be removed by the head of year and all privileges withdrawn.
Head boy Lewis Scott, 15, of Darlington, added: “Wearing the tie is a big honour and it shows that Mrs Gibbon and all of the teaching staff here really care about us.
“The whole year group feels really proud to wear the St Aidan’s uniform and this tie now makes it feel extra special.”
