Students set to “make a difference” at Academic Gala

Berkhamsted staff and pupils alike enjoyed an evening of delicious food and thought-provoking speeches at our annual Academic Gala this week.

We welcomed Mrs Nicola Stopps, Founder and CEO of Simply Sustainable, as our keynote speaker. Nicola spoke about her experience developing ESG and sustainability strategies for well-known businesses, and shed light on the links between commercial opportunity and social benefits within our current climate. After her fascinating speech, Nicola invited any pupils interested in pursuing a career in sustainability to come and talk to her during the dinner, offering invaluable tips and trips for entering the industry.

“Go out into the world, be bold and make a difference,” she told pupils.

After a short break to enjoy some delicious starters, the student speeches began. Following on from Nicola’s speech, all the talks focused on the theme of sustainability. Sixth Form students delivered speeches on a range of topics and demonstrated remarkable confidence in their public speaking as they addressed their peers. Students spoke about subjects they were passionate about – from commercial aviation to cobalt mining in the DRC – supported by detailed research and depth of argument. The evening celebrated our students’ determination to stretch themselves beyond the curriculum and engage in urgent, real-world issues with a critical eye.

The final event of the evening was a debate led by two Year 11 pupils and chaired by a Year 12 student: “This house believes that environmental protestors have no choice but to turn to violence to achieve their aims.” Both sides argued convincingly throughout the debate as they considered the aims and means of environmental protest. Certainly food for thought!

“This event is always an annual highlight where we welcome Year 11 students to join the Sixth in a thought-provoking evening,” said Mrs Becky Miles, Deputy Head of Berkhamsted Sixth.

“It is a great learning experience for the members of the Sixth Academic Committee in planning such an event and the quality of the public speaking and debate by our students was impressive. Our thanks to Mrs Nicola Stopps for her upbeat and enthusiastic keynote speech, encouraging our students to ‘make a difference’ in tackling sustainability challenges for the future.”

At Berkhamsted, we nurture academic curiosity and encourage pupils to Aim High with Integrity and pursue their interests beyond the classroom. The research, collation and presentation of their findings helps develop vital skills that are well regarded by universities and employers. Particularly for our students interested in sustainability, the evening was a chance to explore their passion and take the first step on the path to achieving their dream career.

Interested in learning more about Berkhamsted Boys, Girls and Sixth? Book on to our upcoming Open Events now.