The morning began with a live auction to raise funds for our More Than a Pitch campaign, supporting the development of transformative new sports facilities at More House. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who took part in both the live and silent auctions for their generosity—we hope you enjoy your prizes!

Following inspiring and reflective introductions from the Chair of Governors, the Chair of the Friends of More House, and the Headmaster, the ceremony continued with the presentation of certificates and awards. Pupils were recognised for their academic progress, creative accomplishments, sporting achievements, social development and more. A special highlight was the announcement of this year’s House Champions—recognising the house that had earned the most points throughout the year for demonstrating the school’s core values: kindness, spirit and responsibility. Congratulations Sturt house!

This year we were honoured to welcome Olympian Roger Black MBE as our guest speaker. His moving speech struck a powerful chord with the More House community, sharing his unexpected path from aspiring doctor to elite athlete. He reflected on the moment a friend encouraged him to commit to athletics—reminding him that talent means little without hard work and self-belief. His message surely resonated with many More House pupils who often arrive at our school knowing more about their challenges than their strengths. Just as Roger learned to believe in himself, More House students are empowered to discover their talents and pursue their passions with confidence. He urged us not to become “if only” people, those who look back wishing they’d tried. Success, he reminded us, isn’t always measured in medals or rankings, but in effort, resilience and perseverance. “You don’t always have to have a gold medal put around your neck to feel like a champion. If you’ve given everything—if you’ve just gone for it, committed, and know you couldn’t have done any better—then everyone has the ability to feel like a champion.”

Roger’s closing question—“What does success mean to you?”—offered a lasting moment for reflection. Many of us might not know the answer yet, and that’s OK. Some of the best things in life arrive unexpectedly. Keep exploring, keep trying new things. If one day you discover that spark—that flame that lights inside you—you are lucky. When you do, give it everything you've got.

As ever, the voice of the pupils played a central role. Heartfelt speeches from the outgoing Head Boy and his Deputies offered reflections, thanks and words of inspiration for their fellow pupils. The ceremony continued with the introduction of the new pupil leadership team—comprising the incoming Heads of House, Chair(s) of the School Council and the newly appointed Head Boy. We wish them every success in the year ahead and look forward to the positive impact their leadership will bring to school life.

After the ceremony, guests were invited to explore the school campus, view exhibitions of pupils’ work, and enjoy refreshments on the field, accompanied by live music from ensembles made up of talented students and staff.

This year has once again highlighted the transformative impact of More House School, where every pupil is empowered to discover their strengths and pursue aspirational futures.

We hope that all More House staff, pupils and their families have a restful and happy summer break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to school in September, and wish this year’s leavers the very best with their next steps!