THE end of the school year was marked with the annual Commemoration Day event at Wellington School last Friday.

The event also gave the school chance to say goodbye to long-serving head teacher Alan Rogers, who leaves to take over as head teacher of an international school in Borneo.

He is being replaced by Martin Reader.

Guest speaker at the event was Neil Bruce, OBE, founder of the Targus Group International and old Wellingtonian, and speeches were given by Mr Rogers, school captains Emily Brown and Christopher Timmis as well as chairman of the governing body Sue Watts.

The event started with a commemoration service lead by Rev Helliers, chaplain of Wellington School.

This was followed by the Corps of Drums playing outside the Great Hall.

The main event of speeches and prize giving were held in the marquee, when special tributes were paid to Mr Rogers.

He has been at the school for 24 years and head teacher for the last 16, and his wife Sheila, who also taught at the school, for her constant and loyal support.

Mr Rogers' speech was interrupted by deputy head Stephen Page, who then gave a This is You Life' presentation, describing him as an inspirational teacher and deputy head to former head teacher John Kendall-Carpenter.

The presentation also looked at his successes, from improved exam results, to the building and refurbishment of many buildings at the school, including plans for a new performing arts centre.

At the end of the ceremony a rickshaw then came to the marquee to whisk Mr and Mrs Rogers away.

Visit the schools section for a full list of the prize winners.