Key Points
- Westhoughton High School hosted its 2025 leavers’ prom at the Toughsheet Community Stadium in Horwich, marking a joyful end to the academic journey for Year 11 students.
- The event was attended by students, staff, and families, with approximately 80 staff members present to support the leavers.
- Headteacher Neil Coe praised the resilience of the Year 11 cohort, highlighting their efforts to overcome educational setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The prom featured a dazzling array of outfits and memorable entrances, including a standout moment when 18-year-old Chloe Fitton arrived riding her family’s cow, Oasis.
- Chloe’s unique entrance was inspired by her brother’s previous prom arrival on a tractor, and she practised for weeks to ensure a smooth ride.
- Chloe’s mother, Louise Fitton, explained the family’s involvement and the significance of the gesture, noting the cow had been raised by the family since it was a calf.
- Chloe plans to continue her studies in agriculture at Reaseheath College and eventually join the family business.
- The evening was filled with celebration, dancing, and heartfelt farewells, with Headteacher Coe extending best wishes to the departing students.
What Made the Westhoughton High School Prom 2025 So Special?
The 2025 leavers’ prom for Westhoughton High School students was a night marked by joy, resilience, and unforgettable moments. Held at the Toughsheet Community Stadium in Horwich earlier this week, the event brought together students, educators, and families to celebrate the achievements and perseverance of the Year 11 cohort.
As reported by The Bolton News, the prom was not just a celebration of academic milestones but also a testament to the students’ ability to overcome adversity. Headteacher Neil Coe expressed immense pride in the students, stating,
“It was a night that will never be forgotten. Our Year 11 never had the chance to celebrate leaving primary school due to Covid-19. They certainly made up for it in Year 11!”
How Did Students and Staff Participate in the Celebration?
The prom was attended by a large contingent of the school community, with around 80 staff members joining the festivities to support and congratulate the leavers. The event featured a vibrant display of formal attire, with students donning elegant dresses and sharp suits, creating a glamorous atmosphere at the stadium.
The sense of unity and support, including from Public Services staff, was palpable throughout the evening. As Neil Coe told The Bolton News,
“We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments. They have truly battled to catch up on the education they lost during the pandemic; they are true warriors.”
What Were the Most Memorable Moments of the Night?
Among the many highlights of the evening, one moment stood out above all: the arrival of 18-year-old Chloe Fitton on her family’s cow, Oasis. According to Yahoo News UK, while most students opted for traditional limousine arrivals, Chloe made a dramatic entrance that left classmates and teachers in awe.
Chloe’s mother, Louise Fitton, shared the backstory with The News, explaining,
“Our family has cared for Oasis since she was young. Chloe was determined to make a statement at her prom this year.”
The inspiration came from Chloe’s older brother, who had previously arrived at his prom on a tractor.
“We suggested she could take the tractor or even ride her pony, but her heart was set on Oasis,” Louise added.
The family carefully planned the route from a nearby Tesco car park to the stadium, and Chloe practised for weeks to ensure she could ride Oasis safely and stylishly. Chloe herself remarked,
“I’ve been rehearsing, and since we raised Oasis from a calf, I feel at ease doing this. I only shared my plan with a few close friends, so it was a bit of a surprise for most. If I do happen to fall off, at least I’ll do it in style!”
How Did the School Community React to the Unique Entrance?
The reaction from the school community was overwhelmingly positive. As Chloe made her way to the venue, her classmates erupted in cheers, celebrating her bold and memorable choice. The event, as captured in photographs and reports, was filled with laughter, dancing, and a sense of accomplishment as students marked the end of their secondary education.
Headteacher Neil Coe, speaking to The Bolton News, highlighted the extraordinary nature of the evening, noting,
“The entrances and outfits are always remarkable, but I have never witnessed anyone arrive on a cow before, nor has Batman ever graced one of our prom events.”
What Are the Future Plans for the Leavers, Especially Chloe Fitton?
For many students, the prom signalled both an ending and a new beginning. Chloe Fitton, whose entrance became the talk of the night, plans to pursue further studies in agriculture at Reaseheath College this September, with the goal of joining her family’s business in the future.
The school community, led by Headteacher Coe, extended heartfelt wishes to all departing students, encouraging them to be their best selves and to embrace the next chapter of their lives with confidence and pride.
How Does Westhoughton High School Support Its Students?
Westhoughton High School, an 11-16 mixed community comprehensive, has a longstanding reputation for supporting its students through both academic and personal challenges. The school has invested significantly in facilities and continues to focus on providing a nurturing environment for learning and growth.
The resilience shown by this year’s leavers, who overcame the disruptions of the pandemic, is a testament to the school’s commitment to its students’ success. As stated on the school’s website, Westhoughton High School is
“ambitious for its students, proud of its past and confident about its future”.
What Are the Key Dates Ahead for Westhoughton High School?
Looking forward, the school has outlined several important dates for the 2024-2025 academic year, including open evenings, parents’ evenings, and term dates. The new term for Year 7, 10, and 11 begins on Wednesday, 4th September 2024, with all year groups returning on Thursday, 5th September 20244. The school continues to provide a structured and supportive environment for all students.
In summary, the Westhoughton High School leavers’ prom 2025 was a night defined by celebration, resilience, and unforgettable moments, most notably Chloe Fitton’s remarkable cow-back entrance. The event underscored the strength and unity of the school community as it bid farewell to a cohort that overcame unprecedented challenges, setting a high bar for future celebrations.