Our annual Prize Giving is always a special occasion, bringing together pupils, parents and staff to celebrate achievement and reflect on the values that define our school.

In his address, the Headmaster reminded us that excellence remains at the heart of everything we do. Academic excellence opens doors and creates opportunities, but it is built on the qualities we seek to nurture in every pupil: determination, discipline, hard work and a commitment to fulfilling one’s potential.

Equally powerful was his reflection on the importance of family. As a family-owned school for almost six decades, Runnymede has been shaped by continuity, trust, personal commitment and a deep sense of responsibility to generations of families. He reminded us that the true strength of a school lies not in buildings, but in its teachers, pupils, families, values and standards.

The Headmaster also spoke passionately about intellectual freedom, encouraging young people to think independently, challenge assumptions respectfully, engage with differing viewpoints and leave Runnymede educated rather than indoctrinated.

We were honoured to welcome Dr Charles Powell as our guest speaker. Drawing on his expertise as a historian and international affairs specialist, he reflected on the enduring importance of the values enshrined in the American Declaration of Independence—liberty, equality, individual rights and democratic accountability—and their relevance in today’s world.

He explored the changing international landscape, highlighting the growing importance of cooperation among nations in an increasingly multipolar world, and offered thoughtful insights on the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence. Referencing Pope Leo’s reflections in his encyclical letter Magnifica Humanitas, he emphasised that technological progress must always be accompanied by moral responsibility and a commitment to the common good. His message was clear: while AI represents a remarkable human achievement, it must remain a tool that serves humanity, guided by ethics, responsibility and respect for human dignity.

The day was also an opportunity to celebrate another exceptional year of university destinations, with Runnymedians securing places at some of the world’s leading institutions, including Oxford, Stanford, Yale, Columbia, Imperial, LSE, UCL and St Andrews.

Congratulations to all prize winners and to every pupil whose hard work, character and commitment have contributed to another outstanding year. Thank you to our parents, staff and wider community for the support that makes these achievements possible.