Our Annual Prize Evening gives us the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of students across all year groups. Awards recognise overall academic achievement, effort, talent in specific subjects, community projects and contribution towards making our Academy such an incredible place to learn and work.

This year, the event was more popular than ever and our Main Hall was filled to capacity with over 450 students, family and friends in attendance, and a further 30 members of staff watching the ceremony in our adjacent Dining Hall, thanks to a live feed set up by our ICT Technicians.

As is customary, Mrs Elizabeth Varley, our long-standing Chair of Governors gave the opening address, followed by guest of honour for 2018, Cllr. Joy Allen, who spoke about the positive impact that our young people have on our local community and how, given the right opportunities, they have the potential to influence the future of Bishop Auckland.

Music students entertained award winners and visitors with two outstanding live performances and, as an addition to our usual programme, this year included an special award which gave recognition to a number of students who organised a variety of fundraising activities to support Year 7 student, Demi-Leigh P and her family, who tragically lost their home to a house fire in December. Alongside gifts of essential household and personal items, clothing and Christmas gifts, King James was able to present the family with a cheque for £2,018, raised in just two weeks.

To view photographs from the event please visit our website gallery.