We were particularly delighted to welcome back former Head Girl Cosi Woodard as our guest speaker, who returned to present this year's prizes and share her experiences of life beyond St Gabriel's.

Having left the school seven years ago, Cosi went on to study French and Italian at Durham University before embarking on a career in advertising and publishing. Following two years at Condé Nast, she is now a Junior Account Director at Country & Town House, working with brands across the hospitality and tourism sectors.

In a wonderfully engaging and inspiring address, Cosi reflected on how her experiences at St Gabriel's helped shape the person she is today, offering four pieces of advice to those following in her footsteps: follow what lights you up, look after your friends, say yes to opportunities, and have fun along the way.

Sharing anecdotes from her own school days, Cosi spoke candidly about the value of perseverance, the importance of pursuing subjects that genuinely inspire you, and the lasting friendships formed during her time at St Gabriel's. She encouraged pupils and students to embrace the breadth of opportunities available to them, even when trying something new might take them outside their comfort zones.

Her reflections were a particularly fitting reminder that education is about so much more than examination results, and that the experiences, friendships and confidence developed during school years can have a lasting influence long after pupils leave.

The evening also included addresses from Principal Mr Ricki Smith and Chair of Governors Mr Nigel Garland, for whom this year's ceremony held particular significance as his final Prize Giving in the role.

During his many years as Chair, Nigel has helped guide St Gabriel's through a period of considerable development and change. Among the most significant milestones has been the school's transition to full co-education, completed in September 2026, marking an important chapter in its history.

More recently, Nigel has overseen St Gabriel's merger with Mill Hill Education Group, which will formally take effect on 31 October. As he prepares to step down following its completion, the occasion provided an opportunity to recognise his longstanding commitment, leadership and contribution to the school's development, as St Gabriel's looks ahead to an exciting new chapter.

Of course, at the heart of Prize Giving were the achievements of our pupils and students. The presentation of awards celebrated their hard work, determination, talents and contributions across school life, with families and staff joining together to recognise their accomplishments.

It was also especially lovely to welcome back so many members of our Class of 2026. Having only recently embarked on their next chapters in higher education, they enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with former teachers and friends and share news of their experiences so far. We were equally delighted that four friends from Cosi's own year group returned for the occasion – a wonderful illustration of the enduring friendships and sense of belonging that she spoke about so warmly in her address.

Prize Giving is always a special moment in the St Gabriel's calendar: a chance not only to recognise achievement, but also to celebrate the people and experiences that make our community what it is.

Our warmest congratulations go to all this year's prize recipients, and our sincere thanks to Cosi for returning to inspire the next generation of St Gabriel's pupils and students.

As we celebrate the achievements of the past year and look forward to the opportunities ahead, the evening was a fitting reminder that, while school journeys may take many different paths, the connections made at St Gabriel's last far beyond the classroom.

A community for life.