Congratulations to the 2023 Old Waconian Award Winners

Each year we recognise accomplishments of our former pupils and the contributions they make to our CHS community. We are thrilled to share with you our 2023 Old Waconian award winners who received their unique handmade awards in School in June.

Distinguished Old Waconian Award

Recognises an Old Waconian’s sustained achievement over a long career. 

Susan Bullock CBE, Class of 1977

This award recognises Susan’s unique and outstanding career as an opera singer as well as her ongoing demonstration of the School’s Waconian values. Susan has developed an international career and has received accolades including the Royal Philharmonic Society's award for best singer in 2009, role of the solo soprano at the 2011 Last Night of the Proms and was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2014 for services to opera. She has also taken time out of her busy schedule to perform to CHS pupils and to co-host events for the Old Waconian community.

 “I am absolutely delighted to receive this Old Waconian Award. It means an enormous amount to me because I only came to Cheadle Hulme School part way through the Lower Sixth, and yet in the 18 months or so that I was there, my life was transformed. I was encouraged to follow my dreams by wonderfully supportive teachers and I made lifelong friends. I learned very quickly that anything is achievable if you work hard, and had it not been for Cheadle Hulme School I certainly would not have had the career I am still enjoying today. Thank you SO much!”

Old Waconian Early Career Award

Recognises exceptional accomplishment early in the nominees’ post school career. 

Haroon Munir, Class of 2018

The Alumni Board selected Haroon for this award due to his drive and commitment to charity work during his time at dental school and the way he has demonstrated the Waconian values of integrity and contribution through the projects he has supported. After graduating from CHS Haroon took a gap year to help deliver the message of the importance of oral hygiene in Third World countries. He also undertook training in how to work with children with special needs which he uses in his day to day training in dental school. Haroon has extensive input into several water charities scattered throughout Asia, helping to implement water wells into areas of need. Meanwhile, he is completing his final years of dental school alongside nearing the completion of his own fluoride toothpaste line.   

“I am delighted to have been chosen for this award and am eagerly looking forward to accepting it in person at the school. Returning to the school that has played such an important role in my life will be a truly special experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to celebrate this achievement with the Waconian community.

I am humbled to be included among the esteemed group of past award recipients, and I am committed to continuing to make a positive impact in the world. This recognition has given me renewed energy and motivation to pursue my passions and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”

Old Waconian Contribution Award

Recognises an individual’s service and contribution to CHS

Neil Kellett, Class of 1957

This award recognises Neil’s long standing support of the Old Waconians’ Association and his ongoing efforts to ensure that former pupils remain in touch with the School and each other, particularly during recent difficult times. 

After leaving CHS Neil trained as an accountant, working at the same company until 2000. He joined the Old Waconians’ Association as a paid member and has been a key connection for Old Waconians from his year group ever since. Following a very successful reunion in 1997 he has helped to institute regular get togethers, 3 or 4 times per year, including ex-pat members visiting the UK when possible. During the pandemic Neil took the meet-ups online, including OWs from Australia, Greece, and all over the UK. A stoic effort to keep part of the Old Waconian network connected.

Neil was presented with his award in front of other Old Waconians and supporters of the School at our Donor’s Lunch.

You can read more about the Old Waconian Awards on the CHS website. The nominations for next year's awards will be open in the new year.