Speech Day & Prize Giving
Ipswich High School Celebrates Two Days of Achievement, Inspiration and Community
Ipswich High School marked the end of a wonderful 2025–26 academic year with two memorable days of celebrations, bringing together pupils, families, staff and special guests to recognise achievement, celebrate success and look forward to exciting new beginnings.
The festivities began on Wednesday with the Prep School Prize Giving, a joyful occasion reflecting on a year in which pupils have been inspired, happy and successful across all aspects of school life. A particularly special moment came as Year 6 pupils graduated from the Prep School, ready to begin their next chapter in the Senior School this September.
The ceremony celebrated the hard work, character and achievements of pupils throughout the year, while also recognising the strong sense of community that makes Ipswich High School so special. Pupils and families were treated to an inspiring address from Jack Speck, a former pupil of Mrs Finch, who spoke about his journey through performing arts, his time at ArtsEd and the importance of embracing both success and failure as part of the learning process.
His message highlighted the value of resilience, determination and self-belief, encouraging pupils to pursue their ambitions with confidence and perseverance.
The celebrations continued with a sweet surprise, courtesy of Blue Barn Bakes, whose beautifully crafted cake helped make the occasion even more memorable.
On Thursday, the school community gathered once again for Speech Day, a fitting finale to a fantastic year and an opportunity to recognise the many accomplishments of pupils across the Senior School.
Parents, families, pupils and distinguished guests joined together for the occasion, including Ipswich High School alumnus and acclaimed actor Neil Pearson, known for his roles in productions including Bridget Jones’s Diary. Returning to his former school, Neil delivered an engaging and thought-provoking speech centred on the lifelong value of reading and learning.
Encouraging pupils to “read – and read some more”, he spoke about the importance of knowledge and critical thinking in an age where information is everywhere and facts must be carefully checked. His message resonated strongly with the audience, reminding pupils that knowledge remains one of the most powerful tools they can possess.
Neil concluded his speech with words from Dr Seuss’s Oh, the Places You’ll Go! including the memorable line, “Today is your day” – a perfect reflection of the achievements being celebrated and the exciting futures ahead for Ipswich High School pupils.
The day also provided an opportunity for families to enjoy time together, with guests welcomed to picnic on the beautiful River Lawn, while Year 13 leavers and their families enjoyed a special sit-down lunch in the marquee as they celebrated the culmination of their school journey.
The school extends its sincere thanks to everyone who helped make both events such a success, including Nick and the catering team, the Events team, choir and pupil performers, staff, families and the many guests who joined the celebrations.
As another remarkable year draws to a close, these two special days perfectly captured the spirit of Ipswich High School: a community that celebrates achievement, nurtures ambition and supports every pupil as they take their next steps.
To all our prize winners, graduates and leavers – congratulations. We are immensely proud of everything you have achieved and look forward to seeing all that comes next.
