'Hats On' celebration for Rossall Infant and Junior School pupils

The end of term for the younger pupils of Rossall School came to a close in spectacular fashion. The Mad Hatter themed extravaganza was a fitting way to celebrate the pupils’ hard work and achievements over the past year.

The Infant and Junior School Prize Day, held annually on the last day of term, began in Chapel, where this year’s Infant and Junior School Captains gave thanks for their privileged year of responsibility. The choirs and pupils also performed a number of musical pieces and poetry recitals.

The Prize Giving Ceremony, was a mixture of inspiration and emotion, as Old Rossallian, Josh Landman, who attended Rossall for 11 years, took to the stage and recounted his story of being left paralysed from the neck down, following an accident whilst on holiday. Josh passionately talked about his rehabilitation, learning to walk again and his achievements along the way. Josh’s recent challenges, all for charity, have included a Tough Mudder, the Blackpool 10K and scaling the heights of Snowdon, all in his everyday wheelchair. Josh is now looking towards competing in a triathlon, the London Marathon and hopes to be picked to compete in the sit-ski at the Winter Paralympics 2022.

His speech received a standing ovation from the audience and the pupils were in awe when they received their prizes from him.

To conclude the ceremony, Mrs Katie Lee, Headmistress of Junior, Infant and Nursery School, announced the new School Captains and left the Year 6 leavers with a fitting message:

"In life, we have gifts and we have choices, cleverness is a gift, kindness is a choice. Cherish the gifts you have been given.
Choices can be harder – spend time thinking through the possibilities before making your choice.
Use and practice the skills we have taught you.
Use the gifts you have been given well, and make wise choices.

We hope you cherish your time in Junior School, use the skills you have been taught, and continue to grow and flourish.

Floreat Rossallia!"

The day concluded with an amazing Mad Hatter's Tea Party themed feast. Rossall’s catering team were dressed as characters from Alice in Wonderland, adding that unforgettable touch to the lunch proceedings, whilst families enjoyed an array of sumptuous savouries and sweet treats.

Rossall Infant and Junior School pupils, their families and staff had a joyful day, before leaving School for their well-earned holidays.

The photo above shows new school captains Phelix Kowalski and Grace Sutton with Alice, Tweedledum and Tweedledee.

Josh Landman with the Catering Team.

Josh Landman and Headmistress Mrs Katie Lee.