Story by Rob Smith
Applause rang from the University’ Octagon Centre as it hosted this year’s BNDfC Burngreave Children’s Education Achievement Awards on Wednesday 1st March.
Parents, teachers and community representatives braved the cold to see over 500 children mount the stage and receive awards.
“It’s fabulous to be here,” said Lesley Kay (Head Teacher of Fir Vale School), “This is a positive way to recognise and celebrate the achievements of young people, not just about attainment and attendance in school but in all aspects of community life such as contributions to after school study support groups.”
14-year-old Germaine Colphon, from Parkwood High, happily explained his award was for good behaviour, “And from now on I will try harder and do this again.”
Mohamed Shamassan, teacher of the Arabic Language School explained how great it was getting all the kids who are doing the same thing together. Study Support Co-ordinator Diane Haimeed added: “This brings our communities together, thanks from the Yemeni Community Association to New Deal for putting on this event.”
Really proud
Chris Stanton of Andover Street, witnessing his daughter Katie receive an award for music, said: “This is a brilliant idea for all the kids and the whole Burngreave community. I’m really proud of my daughter.”
Deian Sinclair received an award for reaching Level 2 Key Stage 1. “We also came last year,” explained his mother Beverly Stuart of Roe Lane, “We think it’s a brilliant idea, all coming together to see the kids who have achieved from all different schools around our community.”
Kasim Musim was awarded for soccer skills and his father Abdul was beaming with pride as he also told me: “This is great event and a great idea.” His 6-year-old daughter Miriam Musim agreed, adding that next year she would also be getting an award.
15-year-old Francesca Roslyn Whyte, of Firvale School, receiving an award for outstanding work at Key Stage 3, said:
“Brilliant Rob, it was a brilliant evening. I’m proud to be a part of the Burngreave area and to have achieved at Key Stage 3. My advice to others is: don’t stress yourself, just take it how it comes and believe in yourself.”
Wajhat Hussain, age 10, from Firs Hill School received his award for excellent behaviour. “His brother Nazar is 16 and attends Firvale School,” explained their father. Nazar has achieved five GCSEs (A*–C).
David Chipasha, representing Hinde House School had come to see his sister Alesi, receive her award. “I think this is a very good idea. Although I’m not getting an award, I do hope to get one next year.”
Amber Williams of St Catherine’s School achieved Level 2 at Key Stage 1. Her mother Donna said: “This gives our children more encouragement to achieve.”
Murva Durand of Malton Street, proud of her daughter Tanisha Johnson achieving Level 2 at Key Stage 1 added. “It’s a fantastic idea that gives them self worth, reward and recognition.” Murva’s eldest daughter Natasha Allen achieved five GCSEs (A*–C) at Notre Dame School.
Brilliant!
Alice Hopewell (7) also achieved Level 2 Key Stage 1 and proud father Ian smiled and said: “Brilliant! It’s brilliant.”
Young Laricha Williams (7) of Firs Hill School also achieved Level 2 at Key Stage 1. Proud mother Charlene Ramsey said:
“This gives our children something to work towards and hopefully can continue next year and for years after.”