Xaverian College marked a momentous occasion today as the Class of 2025 came together for a heartfelt and high-spirited Leavers’ Day Celebration. At the centre of this year’s festivities was a brand-new tradition – the inaugural Xaverian Xtraordinaire Student Awards.
These awards were introduced to honour the extraordinary commitment, achievement, and resilience demonstrated by students throughout their two years at the College. From academic excellence and sporting success to community leadership and creative contributions, the awards recognised a wide range of accomplishments that make Xaverian students truly exceptional.
Tony Knowles, Principal, said: “In every corner of this College, we’ve seen students rise to challenges, support each other, and go above and beyond in ways big and small. Today, we celebrated not just the end of their Xaverian journey, but everything they have achieved on the way.”
Over recent weeks, staff across all departments submitted nominations for students who exemplify the Xaverian spirit. From these nominations, 25 students were selected as Xaverian Xtraordinaires, a title that reflects not only their personal triumphs, but also their contributions to the life and legacy of the College.
In between speeches, music performances, and goodbyes, each award was announced to rapturous applause from peers and staff alike, bringing moments of surprise, pride, and emotion throughout the day.
Elizabeth Osayande, former St Matthew’s RC High School student and Captain of the Women’s Basketball Team at Xaverian, said: “My time at Xaverian has been amazing! I am really sad about leaving, but excited for what the future holds! Being nominated for this award by my Coach, Paul Brookes, is very special, it’s so lovely to be recognised for our success!
Yasmin Labied, one of six Year 13 students led by their Team Captain, Elizabeth, crowned Champions at the AoC National Championships back in April, added: “I’m super happy and proud of us all as a Team – we have come a long way over the last two years. Whilst we’re all going our separate ways, I know we’ll be friends for life! I feel lucky to have studied in such a welcoming community that has pushed me to excel!”
Ferdinand Anyaeriuba, who is currently studying A Levels in Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics, and is hoping to pursue a Degree in Aerospace Engineering later this year, said: “Today has been incredible! Xaverian knows how to celebrate the end of the year in style! It has been nice celebrating our achievements with fellow students and our teachers, and I was shocked to have won an award! We have grown so much together over the last two years and I’m grateful we get to come together one last time, on Leavers’ Day, to reminisce about all the memories we have made.”
Tamzin Boyne, former East Manchester Academy pupil, commented: “Seeing everyone come together today for one last time showcases what the Xaverian community is all about. My exams are nearly over now, so it’s sad to know this is one of the last times I’ll be on-campus – two years goes by very fast!”
“This is something really special – we’ve never done anything like this before,” said Antonio de Paola, Vice Principal – Curriculum. “It’s our way of saying thank you, well done, and most of all, good luck to our students for their next adventure!”
The Leavers’ Day Celebrations mark a turning point for the ‘Class of 2025’, sending them off into the world with memories, friendships, and now, for 25 students, a lasting legacy as the first-ever Xaverian Xtraordinaires.
Full list of Xaverian Xtraordinaires:
Ferdinand Anyaeriuba
Rabeea Ahmed
Freya Hannan
Jeffrey Sefa-Sarpong
Khrystyna Halatiuk
Mariam Zerrouk
Moeen Malik
Roselynn Gumbo
Halima Buraimoh
Harry Smale
Avery Gunn
Jamie Harrison
Shaniqua Reeves
Jaskiran Sathi
Lydia Morrison
Tamzin Boyne
Rhys Hargreaves
Peace Adeoye
Cole Johnson
Clementine Jenkins
Immanuella Odubiyi
Lakeisha Chaguma
Meghan Edwards-Rooney
Muhammad Taha
Asha Abukar
Elizabeth Osayande
Lucy Retalic
Amina Ibrahim
Yasmin Labied
Sarah Siyanbola
Anu Agbalaya
Chloe Lyons
As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers an extensive range of A Levels in addition to several BTEC courses. Visit xaverian.ac.uk to find out more.