IT was a time for celebration to mark the end of compulsory education for these teenagers.
Year 11 pupils at Bitterne Park Secondary School launched hundreds of balloons after congregating on the school field.
Yesterday they started their study leave as they make the final preparations for their GCSE exams.
Every year the school holds a marathon leavers' assembly featuring readings, poems, comedy and a few tears.
One of the highlights of the three-hour event is the release of the balloons.
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