Over the coming weeks, we’ll be highlighting more of the pupils and prizes awarded on the evening, each recognising not only academic excellence but also the values and character that make our Crossley Heath community so special.

This time, we’re celebrating Mariyam, winner of the Kevin Allen Prize for Perseverance in Mathematics.

This award is presented in tribute to the much-missed Kevin Allen, a highly respected Maths teacher who sadly passed away ten years ago. His legacy lives on through this prize, recognising students who demonstrate determination, resilience and a deep commitment to learning.

Mariyam’s teachers described her as “one of the most determined and focused students to grace Crossley Heath Sixth Form in recent years – a shining example of what you can achieve when you truly put your mind to it.”

Congratulations, Mariyam. With such an outstanding work ethic, we have no doubt you are destined for great things!

Our prizes are so generously sponsored by members of our wider school family, from individual former students to local businesses with strong links to the school, as well as our wonderful alumni associations, the Old Crossleyans Association and the Heath Old Boys Association. We are incredibly grateful for your continued support of our students, thank you.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be showcasing some of our pupils and the prizes they received. We’re starting with a brand new award, the ‘1C Class of 1978’ Award for Kindness.

This year’s recipient was Jonathan. Jonathan was nominated for this award in recognition of the kindness he consistently showed to others throughout his time at school. Alongside this, he demonstrated resilience, growth and a genuine Crossley Heath spirit. Jonathan has shown real character, heart, and the ability to learn and grow - qualities that go beyond academic talent and truly make him stand out from the crowd.

Congratulations, Jonathan. We’re excited to see what the future holds for you and have no doubt you’ll achieve great things!

Each year, we invite a distinguished former student to return and share reflections on their journey beyond Crossley Heath. This year, we were delighted to welcome back Luke Tryl, former Head Boy (2005).

Since leaving Crossley Heath, Luke has had an exceptional academic and professional journey. He studied Modern History and Politics at the University of Oxford, achieving a First Class degree and serving as President of the Oxford Union. His career has since spanned politics, public policy and education, including senior roles at Ofsted and as a Special Adviser to the Secretary of State for Education. He is now UK Director of More in Common, where he leads ground-breaking research into public opinion on issues such as immigration, climate change, mental health and social cohesion, and is a regular contributor across national media.

Luke’s speech on the evening was thoughtful, engaging and deeply inspiring. He spoke about the importance of curiosity, humility and genuine human connection, reflected honestly on non-linear career paths and setbacks, and encouraged students to back themselves, understand others and use their talents to help shape a more connected society.

We are incredibly grateful to Luke for returning to school and sharing his insight, experience and wisdom with our students.

It’s a simple way for us to stay in touch and share news, events and opportunities that are relevant to you. If you’re just starting out in your career, we can share job opportunities through the platform. If you’re further along, there’s even the option to advertise roles and connect with talented Crossley Heath alumni.

It’s also a great way to reconnect with former school friends and remain part of the Crossley Heath community, wherever life has taken you.

Sign up here: https://alumni.crossleyheath.org.uk/usersignup

Here’s to staying connected in 2026!

Hear first-hand from our students and staff about their biggest takeaways from the inspiring alumni sessions.

A huge thank you to Fred, Rachel, Will, Paul, David, Jazz and Abhi for generously sharing your career wisdom and insights with us, you were brilliant. We also want to thank all our London based former students who came to meet us last night - it was amazing to catch up!

We’re already excited for next year!

Spectators are kindly asked to bring a small monetary contribution to watch the game. All money raised will go to