Highsted Students Inspired to ‘Take That First Step’

On Wednesday 11 December, staff, students, governors, parents and representatives from the local community at Highsted celebrated the incredible success of the school’s GCSE and A-level results. The school once again demonstrated the best results in Swale.

Students received awards for outstanding achievement, progress and effort; contributions to subjects - business, sport, science and art; and significant contributions to the school and local community. The evening included spellbinding musical performances from Highsted students including: Burn – sung by Rosie C and Salut d’Amour – performed by Laura M on the violin.

The guest speaker this year was Bonita Norris, one of the first British women to climb Mount Everest. She inspired students by telling them about her incredible journey from ordinary girl to experienced climber, sharing photographs and tales from her trek to the summit of Everest. It was a trip full of difficulties and challenges but she never gave up the quest and succeeded in reaching her goal.

One of her most important messages was about taking ‘small steps’ and not being afraid to take the first one. She said, “Your friends and teachers can help you on your path but no one can walk it for you. You have to take that first step.” She finished by congratulating the students on their achievements and wishing them well on their personal climb to success.