Year 11 Leavers’ Assembly and Prom - Class of 2026

The Year 11 Prom was a spectacular celebration and the perfect way to mark the end of an important chapter for the Class of 2026. With tremendous enthusiasm from both students and staff, the event was a fitting reward after months of hard work, revision and examinations, celebrating not only academic achievement but also the friendships and memories built throughout their secondary school journey.

The celebrations began in the morning with the ever-popular shirt signing. Students proudly wore shirts covered in quirky, clever and highly creative messages, drawings and well wishes, creating lasting keepsakes of their time together before gathering for the annual Leavers' Assembly.

The assembly took everyone on a journey through the years with a chronological presentation celebrating the cohort's time at school. Thanks to the generosity—and secrecy —of parents and carers, adorable baby photographs were presented and more photos from students' first day at secondary school, proudly wearing oversized blazers and trousers but looking incredibly smart and ready to embrace the next five years.

The trip down memory lane continued with photographs and videos from Years 8 to 11, celebrating everything that makes this year group so special. Students remembered the daily football matches in the cage with Ms Werndley, exciting trips across the UK and abroad to destinations including Naples, Berlin and PGL, alongside highlights from Rewards Ceremonies, Sports Days, Mufti Days, charity events and thoughtful workshops. Every photograph captured another piece of the Year 11 story—from funny faces and dance moves, to moments of intense concentration, teamwork, celebration and friendship.

Staff speeches struck the perfect balance between humour and heartfelt reflection. There was plenty of comedy, alongside moments that genuinely touched the audience as staff reflected on the resilience, kindness, determination and unique personalities that have defined the year group. Goodbye messages and videos from staff, both past and present, provided pure entertainment, featuring TikToks, skateboarding, musical performances and plenty of surprises. Students also embraced the fun as many became good sports when nominated for the light-hearted awards.

One of the highlights of the assembly was Mr McNamara's brilliant "Teenage Dirtbags" video, revealing photographs of staff during their own teenage years. Then, the Year 11 team turned the tables by performing their very own TikTok dressed in full (not full) Chiswick School uniform—a performance that proved they will go above and beyond to make the day special.

The assembly concluded with one final tradition as students cast their votes for Prom King and Prom Queen before eagerly looking forward to the evening's celebrations.

As students arrived for Prom, they certainly did not disappoint. Every arrival brought glamour, elegance, confidence and style, with an incredible showcase of fashion that reflected each individual's personality. From timeless 1950s-inspired outfits and glamorous ball gowns to a striking flamingo-print suit, sharp dinner suits, dazzling 1970s glam rock influences, elegant bodycon dresses, sequins, glitter, intricate beading, stylish veils, statement sunglasses and sparkling shoes, every student made a memorable entrance. The effort everyone made was truly outstanding and helped create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Throughout the evening, students enjoyed capturing memories in the photo booth, stepping onto the impressive 360-degree photo and video platform, tucking into candy floss and popcorn, and enjoying a visit from the ice cream van. The dance floor remained full all night as DJ Jordan did a brilliant job playing favourite songs and student requests - he kept everyone dancing. One unforgettable highlight was Mr McNamara enthusiastically leading a packed dance floor through the Macarena, ensuring everyone joined in the celebrations.

Congratulations to our Class of 2026 Prom King, Marco, and Prom Queen, Vesa, who were deservedly crowned by their peers. Congratulations also to Eden, awarded Best Dressed Girl, and Teddy, awarded Best Dressed Boy, whose outfits certainly turned heads. A special mention also goes to Sebastian NR and Erlisa, whose energy and impressive dance moves earned them the title of Best Dancers of the evening.

The night concluded perfectly as students gathered together for one final dance to Finn HW's original song, Be In Love Again. It was a fitting and memorable ending to an excellent evening.

A very special thank you goes to Ms Bapuji, who kindly volunteered to organise this year's Prom as a gesture for our Year 11 students. From the very beginning, she was determined to create a memorable evening, and her hard work, creativity and attention to detail ensured that every aspect of the event felt truly special. She did a brilliant job and made the organisation appear effortless.

Thanks also to Mr Sohal and the Site Team, whose support behind the scenes was invaluable. Their hard work in preparing the venue, setting up equipment, transforming the space and ensuring everything ran smoothly throughout the evening helped create a great atmosphere.

Congratulations, Class of 2026!! This year's Prom is one to remember for all the right reasons alongside looking forward to futures that lie ahead. We are really proud of every one of our Year 11 students and wish them every success as they embark on the next stage of their journey.