St John the Baptist’s College, Portadown hosted their annual prize giving evening with the class of 2023. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed celebrating the success of each pupil and it was great to see so many of them in attendance.
Mrs Noella Murray, Principal and Staff would like to thank Chaplain Fr Clarke, for his blessing and opening prayer which started the evening’s proceedings.
On the night the school was very fortunate to have special guest Nathan Anthony (who is past pupil of Drumcree College). This local man is now a best-selling author and internet sensation and regularly appears on television cookery slots such as This Morning.
Nathan spoke to the Class of 22/23 advising them that “what’s for them won’t pass them” and how even though they may be still working out their future path, they should never limit themselves.
Many thanks again to Nathan for taking time out of his very busy schedule to inspire our pupils.
Mrs Murray, spoke about how proud they are of each and every one of their graduates. She remarked on the impact they have left on the college and encouraged them to “continue to work hard and always try their best.” Mrs Murray advised “Use the many talents with which God blessed you, be kind to others but please be kind to yourselves also. Don’t follow the crowd, be your own person, stand up for what is right and always set the good example. I believe in you all and I know you have the potential to do so much good.”
Mrs Murray celebrated the fact the class of 2023 achieved 100% 5 A*-C GCSE grades and 97% achieving 7 A* to C. She put this down to their hard work, determination and the support of both staff, parents and the wider community.
She went on to say “It has been a real pleasure and privilege to watch this cohort grow into mature, kind, and well-educated young adults.”
We wish them all the best in their future.