Once again, to acknowledge the many achievements of our students, this most important occasion was held at the magnificent Don Carlos Hotel. Our special Guest of Honour this year was Count Rudi von Schönberg, a Marbella resident and member of the Austrian Graf von Schönberg family, who is currently the President of the Marbella Tourism Board. Count Rudi addressed the students, staff, parents and guests with words that echoed our own school ethos. Together with academic and sporting success, he drew attention to the importance of being good, honest citizens who should strive to create a better society for all, mentioning the lessons to be learned from the recent Marbella corruption scandals. We appreciated his wise words and expect our students to be ever mindful of the role of ‘good citizen’ that they should not only fulfil when they are older, but now, both at home and at school.

This year the entertainment that punctuated the awards was ambitious but hugely successful. An excerpt performed by Key Stage 3 from the school’s earlier production of Oliver, had all the vigour and energy of the real show, with David Dunckley as Fagin and Charlie Barnes as Dodger leading the gang in the lively ‘Be Back Soon’. For me, the entrance of Marion, Zoe, Laura and Fares singing ‘Who Will Buy’ was simply stunning and their effect on the 900 strong audience, spellbinding.

Key Stage 2 treated us to their excellent ‘grand finale’ first performed at the Summer Fiesta whilst Key Stage 4 was represented by Adham Robin. Adham is one of the most accomplished pianists ever to attend the school and we were captivated by the sensitivity and maturity of his performance. Rio Summers, from Year 12, represented the Sixth Form singing ‘Don’t Know Why’ by Norah Jones. It is clear to see why Rio is highly regarded: comfortable on stage she sings with warmth and confidence - a natural artist. Huge thanks to all these students and staff who helped to make the Graduation and Prizegiving day so memorable.

We give sincere congratulations to our many prizewinners and nominees and not forgetting those hard working students who were unlucky this time but who may be next year’s winners - it is something to aim for.

Finally, this article would not be complete without mentioning our graduating class - the class of 2007. Having read their interviews on the earlier pages, many of them have thanked the staff for all the help given to them over the years and say how much they have valued their time at EIC. At Graduation and Prizegiving it is our opportunity to show our appreciation of their hard work, good humour, generosity and commitment to the Sixth Form and the school. We thank them for everything they have contributed to enrich the experience of everyone at EIC.

Lesley Lawrence