QEH Prize Giving 2025

The whole school community came together in the iconic Clifton Cathedral to mark the end of the first half of term. Prize Giving is always a highlight of the school calendar, an uplifting celebration of the hard work, talent, and dedication of our pupils.

This year’s event truly reflected the spirit, ambition, and achievement that define our community. Congratulations to all our prize winners; through your commitment, perseverance, and enthusiasm, you make us immensely proud. Each award recognises not only academic and sporting success, but also the character, values, and effort that shine through every day.

Our school Prefects opened the ceremony with an engaging overview of school life, before introducing our guest speaker, Old Elizabethan Mike Smith (Class of 1982–1984). Mike began his career at MCA Publishing, later moving to Columbia Records and Mercury Records, and eventually becoming Global President at Downtown Music Publishing. Throughout his distinguished career he has worked alongside some of the biggest names in the music industry, signing artists such as Blur, Stormzy, Gorillaz, and Robbie Williams, a testament to his expertise and passion.

In his inspiring address, Mike reflected on our QEH school motto, “Whilst we have time, let us do good,” encouraging pupils to carry its message beyond the classroom and into every stage of their lives. As a tribute to his accomplished career in music, the school choir performed Tender by Blur, a memorable moment that brought smiles to pupils, staff, and parents alike.

As we look ahead to the remainder of the school year, we do so with gratitude, pride, and excitement, celebrating achievement, embracing opportunity, and continuing to do good wherever the future may lead us.