On Friday 18th November the Anglican Cathedral hosted the Belvedere Academy's annual prize giving ceremony, an event dating back to 1911. The whole of the Academy gathered to praise and congratulate the fantastic achievements of both staff and girls over the last year and Mr Kennedy's address highlighted the outstanding progress the school has made since becoming an Academy in 2008. As the Cathedral settled and pupils, teachers and parents took their seats a silence fell throughout as the organist played for the entrance of the senior members of staff, governors and special guests.

After Cannon Myles Davies welcomed everyone, Juliet Humphries gave the Chairman's remarks which were followed by a detailed report by Mr Kennedy and a sense of pride filled the cathedral.

Key stage 3, 4 and 5 were eligible to win prizes and the long lists of names really did make the dedication, effort and success of the pupils apparent.  Both effort and attainment were recognised and special awards such as 'Key Stage Manager's Award', 'The Muriel St Clare Byrne Award' and 'The Ruth Robertson Award' were but a few of the special awards for those doing particularly well, whether it be for academic excellence or outstanding effort.  As well as present pupils receiving prizes many past pupils took time out from university and work to collect their own prizes and it was great to see the progress the girls had made since leaving Belvedere. Helen Fraser, GDST Chief Executive, was the guest speaker and her inspirational speech gave an insight into her successful career as a publisher. The ceremony finished with a vote of thanks by the Academy’s Head Girl Katie Oliver.