Barrister Sally Penni MBE was an inspirational speaker at our fantastic Achievement Evening.
Sally had already met some of our pupils at the Bar Mock Trials where Pleckgate’s would-be barristers of the future won the Northwest Heat and went to the Royal Court of Justice in London to compete in the final.
Sally admitted: “I was so impressed that a high school in Blackburn was competing in a competition against schools and sixth forms from all over the UK and it stood out for me.”
Sally told her story of how, although her parents were doctors, she wanted to become a barrister and the setbacks she faced along the way – and overcame. She specialises in crime and employment law and is also an author, parent, podcaster and public speaker.
“It wasn’t always easy but overcoming the barriers and struggles make us who we are.”
Sally said could see ‘the depth of talent’ in the Pleckgate pupils who maybe lawyers of the future, but also doctors, coders, designers and more. She had four bits of advice for our pupils.
“Develop some resilience skills and learn to bounce back from setbacks; everyone has a super power, whether its sports, your voice, your imagination, use it to your advantage; look after your mental health and keep in touch with school – let them know you are thriving not just surviving.”
Mrs McGinty said: “The children who have been presented with awards were nominated by the staff and they have been recognised as going above and beyond in terms of their achievements, their commitment and their fulfilment of our school values.
“We aren’t just celebrating children who achieve academically but are successful in different ways through sport, music, drama and more but all of them are outstanding representatives of our school community.
“We also welcomed back last year’s Year 11s who have shown resilience and determination and have set the standard for younger pupils.”
There were Aspire, Believe, Act, Succeed, Enrichment and Head of Year Award from Years 8-11. There were also separate awards covering everything from a Reading Award, to various Sports Awards, Anti-Bullying Award, Drama, Manners, Law and more for our Year 7s-11.
Our Class of 2025 returned to pick up subject prizes with last year’s Head Boy Peter and Head Girl Anam saying: “It’s a joy to be back. We have enjoyed celebrating everyone’s achievements and we want to say a big thank you to the teachers and staff for their dedication and support during our five years at Pleckgate. It’s a special school community.”
