SWIMMING the Solent, cycling around the Island, and charity fundraising are some of the challenges completed by students achieving a nationally recognised award at a Sandown school.

The Bay CE held a celebration event on Friday, December 3, to recognise the 65 students from Years 8, 9, 10, and 11 who achieved their Pixl Edge Apprentice qualification.

The qualification helps develop skills essential for future employment, such as leadership, organisation, resilience, initiative, and communication.

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Delivered by The Bay CE School, it is not an easy qualification to gain, requiring commitment and resilience over time alongside the tenacity to plan, do and review each challenge.

Isle of Wight County Press:

The Celebration event was hosted by Lesley Walters, Assistant Headteacher and had guest speakers, Peter Higgin, Chair of Governors for the Cornerstone Federation, Debbie Andre, Isle of Wight Cabinet minister for Children’s Services, and Vanessa Churchman giving the special award on behalf of Sandown Rotary Club.

Peter Higgin told the students how proud of them he was and that going above and beyond is what makes school special, which is what future employers will look at when they read a CV.

Debbie Andre, Isle of Wight Cabinet member for Children’s Services, spoke of the value of employability skills in gaining an advantage in a competitive field.

She said she was incredibly proud of all the students and thanked the teachers on their behalf.

The Community and Special Endeavour Award was presented to Chris Templeman in Year 10. He received a cheque and a cup.

Year Manager Amanda Jones said: "Chris has been a fantastic student throughout his time at The Bay.

"He is cheerful, positive, charming, helpful, and polite and is always aware of how everyone is feeling.

"He works hard in lessons, contributes so much to school life, including the football team."

All students were presented with a certificate and will receive a Pixl Edge badge to go on their blazers.

Lesley Walters, Assistant Headteacher, said: "The employment world is ever-changing, and the importance of every child developing transferable skills has never been so important.

"All students in the school have the opportunity to complete the Pixl Edge qualification, which assesses these skills of employability."