On 21 September, South Wilts Grammar School welcomed guests to their 95th speech day event. It was an opportunity to celebrate student success and thank the staff for their contribution and commitment.
Guest speaker and alumna, Alison Say, shared her experiences of SWGS and her non-linear path to becoming Vice President of Ecosystem at IBM Technology. Imparting her advice to students, Alison encouraged them to, “get involved at every opportunity – the unlikeliest of motivations can often lead to the greatest of accomplishment; be comfortable in your own skin and gravitate to people who support and encourage that; be accountable for your actions; be honest, it builds trust. Have integrity – do the right thing – stand up for what you believe in; Lastly, and most importantly, don’t forget to have a fun!”
Mrs Chilcott, Headteacher at South Wilts Grammar School for twelve years, praised students for their involvement in the varied extra-curricular activities on offer at SWGS, highlighting how over 450 students from Years 9 to 13 participated in the Duke of Edinburgh Award, their work in fundraising for the school charities and their service both to the school and the wider community. The school celebrated, with students sharing their experiences, the ongoing commitment to sustainability and equality diversity and inclusion.
Guests were treated to remarkable performances from the senior choir and the talented musicians on cello, piano, violin and trumpet.
Mrs Chilcott closed by remarking that, “South Wilts continues to be a thriving school community where academic excellence and compassion go hand in hand. This success is not possible without the support from parents, staff and the students themselves, so a big thank you to you all.”
Photograph (L-R): Dan Bishop, Deputy Headteacher; Atiqul Hoque, Mayor of Salisbury; Alison Say, Vice President of Ecosystem at IBM Technology; Lauren, Head Student; Niamh, Head Student; Michele Chilcott, Headteacher; Nick Lay, Chair of Governors