Nominations for the Old Waconian Awards 2026 are open

Nominations for the 2026 Old Waconian Awards are OPEN. For full details of thew award criteria and nominations, you can take a look at our online form. 

The award categories are:

• The Distinguished Old Waconian Award recognises an OW’s sustained achievement over a long career.
• The Old Waconian Early Career Award recognises exceptional accomplishment early in the nominees’ post school career.
• The Old Waconian Contribution Award recognises an individual’s service and contribution to CHS.

You have until Sunday 1 March to submit your nomination online. Once nominations have been received, they will be reviewed by the Alumni Board before deciding upon a winner for each category. If you are considering nominating an Old Wac and need some nomination inspiration, here are last year's winners:

Distinguished Old Waconian Award

Dr Judith Yates, Class of 1968

Dr Judith Yates dedicated three decades (1980-2010) as a Birmingham GP, providing vital care to vulnerable individuals, including those with addiction. Specialising in drug and alcohol treatment across primary and secondary care, she further served as a Clinical Prescriber at an NHS detox unit. Affectionately known as "Doctor Judy," her impact extended beyond direct care; she became a community lifeline and a powerful advocate for harm reduction and drug policy reform nationally and internationally, championing naloxone access and overdose training. As a board member of the "International Doctors for Healthier Drug Policies" (IDHDP), her global commitment is clear. This award recognises Dr. Yates' unwavering dedication to Birmingham's vulnerable and her significant local, national, and international contributions to reducing drug-related harm.

Old Waconian Early Career Award

Megan Randles, Class of 2012

Megan Randles, is recognised for her impressive early-career achievements in global environmental policy and her unwavering commitment to protecting the planet’s biodiversity. As Global Political Lead for Greenpeace’s 'Global Oceans Treaty' campaign, she spearheads efforts to bring 30% of the world's oceans under ecological management by 2030, an unprecedented conservation goal. Megan's exceptional leadership is evident in her speeches at the UN Headquarters and representation at the COP on Biodiversity. She embodies Waconian values through her resilience in addressing climate change, integrity in upholding Greenpeace's mission, and compassion in fostering collaboration across diverse stakeholders, making her an inspiring role model.

Old Waconian Contribution Award

Vera Moore née Sullivan, Class of 1956, Former Staff 1960-1996

Vera Moore’s multifaceted involvement has significantly raised the profile of CHS and enriched its community. As a former student under the Government assisted places scheme, she embodies the school's commitment to accessibility and diversity, highlighting its long-standing tradition of supporting pupils from various backgrounds. Her 36 years as a Latin teacher directly impacted countless students, fostering a love for classical studies, while also serving as Staff Common Room Chair and a school Governor. Beyond teaching, Vera strengthened alumni ties by organising reunions through the Old Scholars’ Association, and taking positions as Chair of the Old Waconians’ Committee and Editor of the Old Waconian magazine. Her decision to leave a legacy to the Bursary Fund, and to share her CHS story with others, further demonstrate her dedication to ensuring future generations benefit from a CHS education.