Gordano School has been recognised as one of Portishead's leading community champions after winning two prestigious honours at the inaugural Together Portishead Community Business Awards, receiving both the Community – Give Back Award and the evening's highest accolade, the Spirit of Portishead Award, which was awarded jointly with LIFE:ALIGNED and presented by Sadik Al-Hassan, Labour MP for North Somerset.

The awards celebrate the individuals, organisations and businesses that make an exceptional contribution to the Portishead community. Receiving both awards is a tremendous honour and recognises Gordano School's commitment to developing not only successful students, but compassionate, responsible young people who understand the importance of giving back.

As Portishead's only secondary school, Gordano is proud to play a central role in the local community. Guided by its values of Dream Big – Do Your Best – Give Back and, as a member of the Lighthouse Schools Partnership, a shared commitment to helping every child flourish, the school believes education extends far beyond the classroom.

This commitment is reflected in every aspect of school life. From Duke of Edinburgh volunteering, charity fundraising and community performances to careers education, work experience and partnerships with local businesses, Gordano provides opportunities for students to develop the confidence, skills and values they need to become the employees, entrepreneurs and community leaders of the future. Through initiatives such as the Gordano Community Partners Scheme, GoShine community sports facilities, strong partnerships with local organisations and extensive support for children and families, the school's impact reaches far beyond its school gates.

Louise Blundell, Headteacher at Gordano School, said:

"We are incredibly proud to receive not just the Community – Give Back Award, but also the overall Spirit of Portishead Award. These awards reflect everything that makes Gordano School so special. As a proud member of the Lighthouse Schools Partnership, we are committed to helping our pupils flourish not only academically, but as compassionate, responsible citizens who make a positive difference in their communities."

The school would like to thank everyone who voted in the awards and supported its nomination. The encouragement shown by students, staff, parents, carers, alumni, local businesses and the wider Portishead community made this recognition even more meaningful.

Kelly Harmer, Business Development and Marketing Lead at Gordano School, added:

"This recognition celebrates the dedication of our students, staff, families and community partners who share that vision every day. We are deeply grateful to everyone who voted for us and supported our nomination. These awards truly belong to our whole community."

Gordano School would also like to congratulate all of the finalists and winners recognised at the Together Portishead Community Business Awards. Their contributions help make Portishead such a vibrant, supportive and inspiring place to live and work.

Thank you to everyone who voted for Gordano School and for your continued support. Together, we are helping to inspire the next generation to dream big, do their best and give back to their community.

Gordano School - Together Portishead Community Business Awards

Last month, Gordano School's Year 13 students celebrated the end of their school journey in spectacular fashion at their final Ball. Held at The Bristol Hotel, the evening brought together 170 graduates for a memorable celebration of their achievements and friendships.

Students from across the Lighthouse Schools Partnership came together for the first of what we hope will become many LSP Creative Arts Days. Hosted by Chew Valley School, the event welcomed not only Gordano students but those from across the Trust: Chew Valley, Churchill Academy and Backwell for a full day of creativity, collaboration and performance.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the day was seeing students work alongside peers they had never met before. Despite having only one morning to create and rehearse an original performance, they quickly formed new friendships, shared ideas and demonstrated impressive maturity, teamwork and creativity.

Drawing on a wide range of talents, including dance, drama, singing and instrumental music, students combined their skills to produce imaginative and engaging performances. It was inspiring to see how different artistic disciplines complemented one another to bring powerful stories to life in such a short space of time and in some very warm performance spaces!

The event was also attended by Gary Lewis, CEO of the Lighthouse Schools Partnership, who praised the students' enthusiasm and collaboration, commenting: "Today has been a wonderful reminder of what young people can achieve when creativity, trust and teamwork come together. The quality of the performances, especially after such a short preparation time, has been truly impressive."

We are excited to see this become the first of many opportunities for students across the Lighthouse Schools Partnership to come together, celebrate their talents and create something truly special.

Article by Sophie R - Gordano Sixth Form Student:

While the lower school enjoyed their traditional Sports Day, Year 12 headed to the top field for a competition of their own – the much-anticipated Sixth Form Silly Sports Day!

Organised by the Student Leader for Sport, Robert, the event took place on a blazing summer's day and was packed with laughter, teamwork and plenty of friendly competition.

From wacky obstacle courses, egg and spoon races to hilarious relay and wheelbarrow races, every challenge was designed to get everyone involved – and even the teachers joined in on the fun!

Armed with drinks for refreshment and some very unconventional relay batons (including a baby doll and an exercise ball!), teams gave it their all in a series of entertaining events. Spirits were high from start to finish, with everyone embracing the silliness and cheering each other on.

After a closely fought contest, Team Hazel claimed the overall victory, narrowly edging out the Pirates, who finished a fantastic second. Congratulations to everyone who took part in making the afternoon such a memorable success!

Gordano School is looking to grow its NSEA (National Schools Equestrian Association) team and would love to hear from any students who compete with their own horses.