A Chippenham secondary school has held its annual awards evening, celebrating its students' achievements from the previous year.

Sheldon School's event took place on Thursday, October 24, rewarding "high standards of work, commitment, and citizenship".

Headteacher Peter Lynch said: "This event not only celebrates our students' achievements but also fosters a sense of community pride.

Sheldon School headteacher, Pete LynchSheldon School headteacher, Pete Lynch (Image: Sheldon School) "The awards evening serves as a reminder of the collaborative efforts that strengthen the local community and inspire the next generation."

This year’s guest speaker was Simon Benton, a former Sheldon parent and current executive at the Pokémon company.

Mr Benton has worked closely with the Sheldon Pokémon Club over the past year, sharing his insight into the corporation and donating prizes for club events.

He said: "It’s a privilege to be involved in a community that values education and creativity."

He spoke to the audience of students and families about the importance of staying curious and always asking ‘why’, and said his refusal to settle for the status quo has led him on a unique career path.

Simon Benton, guest speaker and former parent of Sheldon studentsSimon Benton, guest speaker and former parent of Sheldon students (Image: Sheldon School) He has worked for leading trading card game companies like Pokémon, Panini, and Topps, travelling and working across the globe.

He said the education his children received at the school allowed his daughters to pursue their goals at university and beyond.

Sheldon awarded more than 240 students with prizes, including the Beale trophy and Newsam Award for students who showed "the most outstanding contribution to the life of the school".

This year also saw the introduction of the Jessica Baker Award, named after a former head girl who recently passed away.

A student receives the inaugural Jessica Baker AwardA student receives the inaugural Jessica Baker Award (Image: Sheldon School) This award was presented to a student in Year 7 who "exemplifies the Sheldon values to be kind, be brave and be the best you".

Other top prizes handed out included the Twinning Association Award for the top modern foreign language students, the Octoprint Award for excellence in design and technology, and the Richard Bull physical education award for a student in Year 7 who excels in sport.

The Rotary Club’s community award for service to the wider community was also handed out, as was the Scholars Award and the Lydia Harding Award for courage and determination.

Students in each year group received recognition for their efforts in each faculty area, as well as pastoral awards that recognised students for their "excellent character, kindness and bravery".

The evening also included musical performances by the Sheldon flute group and soloists on piano and guitar.