Guard of Honour

Each year at Acklam Grange School, we proudly mark the end of our Year 11 students’ journey with our much-anticipated Guard of Honour—a tradition that reflects the deep respect and admiration we hold for our leavers.

Following the completion of their examinations, Year 11 students are invited back into school for a special Leavers’ Day. As they arrive, they are welcomed in a truly memorable way: staff and students line the school yard to form a guard of honour, applauding and cheering as our Year 11 cohort lead a procession through the space together. This powerful moment of recognition creates an atmosphere of celebration, pride, and reflection, as the whole school community comes together to acknowledge their achievements.

The Guard of Honour is far more than a ceremonial send-off. It is an opportunity to celebrate the hard work, perseverance and personal growth our students have demonstrated throughout their time with us. It allows younger students to show appreciation and be inspired by those who have come before them, while giving staff the chance to offer a heartfelt farewell. As our Year 11 students walk through the applause one final time, it marks both an ending and a beginning—closing their chapter at Acklam Grange School while wishing them every success ahead of Results Day and beyond.