Our heart aches as Year 11 students at Leon Academy in Milton Keynes. We joined the school in 2020 with hopes high and dreams big, looking forward to celebrations like the time-honored tradition of prom. But our hopes were dashed when Leon Academy denied us the opportunity to celebrate our rite of passage - the Prom, leaving a wave of upset and angry students in its wake.

Prom is not only a celebration, it's a milestone. An event that marks the culmination of our high school years. It's something we've watched unfold in films, read about in books, and heard stories of from older peers. A significant event that we don’t want to miss out on.

We recognize the responsibility to conduct such events in a safe manner considering the current public health scenario. Yet, this is not an impossible task. Many schools in Milton Keynes and across the UK have successfully held proms, adhering to necessary health guidelines and ensuring safety. We believe Leon Academy should do the same.

We, the Year 11 students, deserve to create memories, to have stories to tell and share when we look back at our high school years. This plea is not just about a dance, it's about the invaluable memories and bonding moments that are born out of shared experiences.

Please sign this petition to urge the Leon Academy to reconsider their decision and provide Year 11s their well-deserved prom night.