The annual Prefects Dinner, now in its second decade, took place this week at Merchants’ Hall, bringing together more than 60 guests.

In attendance were 38 Year 13 students from both Collegiate School and Montpelier High School (MHS), alongside 18 members of the schools’ leadership teams, including staff, governors and ambassadors, as guests of SMV.

The event is designed to give students experience of a formal setting, combined with structured networking and a keynote speech, and for some, it is their first black-tie event. The aim is to help students develop confidence in a formal and professional environment, practising conversation, listening and presenting themselves clearly among a wide range of guests.

Former MHS student Sophia Bailey delivered the keynote address, reflecting on her journey since leaving school four years ago. Despite having four Russell Group university offers, Sophia took what she described as “a leap of faith” and instead of accepting a university place, she started a Level 3 apprenticeship with AtkinsRéalis, an experience that she described as confidence building.

To the SMV members in the room, Sophia thanked them “for investing not just in institutions, but in individuals,” adding “my journey has been shaped by opportunities created through your support”.

Now based in London and working with Deloitte on a Project Management Degree Apprenticeship, Sophia encouraged the sixth formers present to embrace every opportunity, even those that feel daunting. Addressing those who don’t yet have their future mapped out, she said “There is no single ‘right’ route. University is not the only option, and neither are apprenticeships. What matters is that you are brave enough to take a leap, even when you’re unsure.”

Caroline Duckworth, CEO of SMV, said: “The Prefects’ Dinner is always a highlight for SMV, giving us the opportunity to meet such impressive young people and hear directly about what matters to them. The students were thoughtful, articulate and well prepared. They spoke candidly about their ambitions and the challenges ahead, and they represented their schools exceptionally well.”

Gail Bragg, Governor at Collegiate School, former Chair of Trustees for Venturers Trust and a member of SMV, added: “The students I spoke with were genuinely engaged. It was encouraging to hear about the different paths they’re considering, including university, apprenticeships and gap years, and the clarity with which they’re approaching those decisions.”

Vanetta (Ben) Spence, Headteacher of MHS, said: “Events like this give students the chance to practice important life skills in a real-world setting. Engaging in conversation with professionals from different sectors helps build confidence and broadens their understanding of the opportunities available to them.”

Jeremy McCullough, Head of Collegiate School, said: “Exposure to formal events and diverse networks helps students develop the communication skills and self-assurance they will need beyond school. It’s valuable experience that complements their academic studies.”

The Prefects Dinner remains an established part of the SMV calendar, offering students a practical opportunity to build confidence and extend their networks as they prepare for the next stage of their educational journey.

Dinner was prepared by Square Food Foundation, a Bristol-based social enterprise that champions seasonal, locally sourced produce and uses food as a vehicle for skills development and community wellbeing.

Photo captions:
Main image – Collegiate students
Second image – MHS students with headteacher Ben Spence, bottom right
Third image – Gillian Camm, member of SMV and former Chair of Governors for MHS, with Sophia Bailey.