A WEYMOUTH school held a leaving celebration for students marking the end of their studies.

It was a big day out for the students of the Compass centre who dressed up for the event at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy.

The leavers’ lunch was organised by headteacher Allan Wood for the Year 11 students as they prepare for their future.

It is a relatively new event as the first leavers’ lunch was only held last year and it includes the presentation of certificates to students recognising their achievements.

Mr Wood said: “The students had a great time and the team were very happy with the services provided at the academy.

“The pupils and team sat for lunch and the parents were then invited to watch the certificates that were handed out to students to recognise their academic and personal achievements.”

The centre, in Chickerell Road, caters for students who are at risk from being excluded from mainstream schools and also supports students with medical needs.

The centre was opened in 2003 and is part of the Chesil Education Partnership, a collaboration built on the existing pyramid group of schools in the area.

Compass provides an alternative environment for students and meets student needs by using customised curriculum and provisions.

Mr Wood wished the students ‘every success in the future and at their college places’.