NEARLY 200 Twynham School students celebrated the end of A-Level studies with an American-style commencement ceremony.

The Year 13 students held the school's second ceremony after the successful first venture last year.

Head teacher Dr Terry Fish said there was a 'great sense of occasion and fun' as students walked in procession from the school to the marquee on Christchurch Quay.

Alumnus, Tom Board, who is in the last year of his six year medical degree at St George’s in London, delivered the alumni speech.

He was followed by the valedictorian speaker, Ben Goddard-Fletcher, who inspired the whole company with his speech.

Ben has a place at Jesus College, Cambridge, to study medicine this coming September.

District divisional officer, Stu Jeneson, presented the Fireman’s Award to Charlotte Cordery.

This award is awarded annually to the student who has given most to the community.

Each student was then presented with a graduation certificate before photos.

After a closing speech, by the director of the sixth form, Dave Cook, guests were treated to strawberries, cream, cupcakes and drinks while Twynham School’s musicians entertained.

Dr Fish said: “The wonderful atmosphere today speaks volumes of the special relationships enjoyed between students and between students and their teachers.

"Those inspiring and well-crafted speeches delivered by a current student and one who is well on his way to making a considerable mark in the world, illustrates how accomplished our sixth formers are by the end of their time at Twynham.”