Headteacher Mr Jon Goodchild paid tribute to the teaching and non-teaching staff at the school and he praised the county council for financial investment.

"Having worked in a large number of secondary schools in various parts of the country, I can say, without hesitation, that Smithdon's facilities are the finest I have experienced," he told a packed hall of pupils, leavers, parents and grandparents.

He thanked the families for their support and the students for their politeness, courtesy and positive qualities.

Entertainment included performances from those studying music, with a closing duet by head boy Alex Peach on guitar and head girl Abaigh Compton singing.

Prize winners were spread across the years, with the emphasis on celebrating achievement at GCSE and A level.

Among those mentioned were Christina Sanderson, who achieved nine A* and 3 A grades at GCSE; Amrith Malhi with 4.5 A* and 6.5 A and one B and Angus Macnamara with five A*, 3.5 A and 3.5 B grades.

James Macnamara received the Queen's Prize for best A level results – he achieved four As and an AS grade B as well as a distinction for the Advanced Extension Award in English literature.

Chairman of the governors, Mrs Veronica Welham, acknowledged the hard work undertaken by everyone involved with the school and said the design and technology block at Smithdon is to be named after Mr Christopher Gillett, the previous chairman for 12 years.