THIRTEEN deserving individuals, classes and establishments were honoured last night (Thursday, June 16) at the first St Helens Star Education Awards 2016.
Held at the World of Glass, the awards recognised the achievements of staff and pupils alike, with winners ranging from long-standing headteachers, to talented pupils - including one inspirational teenager who is about to take GCSEs despite suffering serious brain injuries that experts said at the time might mean he would never return to mainstream education.
Editor of the St Helens Star, Andrew Kilmurray, said: "It was an inspiring night. Well done to each and every one of the deserving winners!
"We need to celebrate our achievements - that's why this occasion was created.
"Young people must set themselves high ambitions and the town must salute their triumphs.
"We at the St Helens Star hope these awards will encourage people to raise self-esteem and aspirations."
There will be a full profile of the winners, with photos, in next week's St Helens Star (Thursday, June 23).
The awards went to:
* Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Carmel College: David Edwards, Sutton Academy
* Secondary School of the Year; sponsored by GreenAcres Rainford: St Augustine of Canterbury, Blackbrook
* Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by St Helens Chamber: Luke Jack Fraser of Total Steel Fabrications
* Secondary School Pupil of the Year, sponsored by St Helens College; Rebecca Hodge, Rainhill High
* Unsung Hero Award: Paul Fallon, Launchpad Tuition Services
* Primary School Pupil of the Year, sponsored by Heirs and Graces: Lucie Cain, Birchley St Mary's Catholic Primary
* Primary School of the Year, sponsored by Rathlee Nursery School: Eccleston Mere
* Teacher of the Year; sponsored by Studio@Deyes: Fabienne Spalvieri, Ashurst Primary
* Class of the Year: Class 8R1, Cowley International College
* Head Teacher/Principal of the Year, sponsored by World of Glass: Diane Bate, District CE Primary School
* Early Years Award: The District CE Primary school
* Further Education Student of the Year, sponsored by University Centre St Helens: Darcie Chazen Stead, Carmel College
* Special Education Needs Award; Callum Chaplin, Cowley International College
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