HARDWORKING students were honoured for their efforts in a graduation ceremony.

A total of 250 Year 11 pupils from the King John School, in Shipwrights Drive, Thundersley, received graduation diploma certificates from their tutors in front of friends and family at a ceremony at the Cliffs Pavilion, Westcliff.

A film showed farewell messages from teachers began proceedings, before certificates were handed out and a group of students performed musical numbers.

Deputy headteacher Steve Watts said: “The graduation ceremony was a fitting tribute to an outstanding year group.

“The students looked very smart and it has been a real privilege working with them for the last five years.

“I look forward to welcoming those students staying with us in the Sixth Form to our brand new building and send my best wishes to those continuing their education elsewhere.”