CHILDREN are one of the most important parts of a school, which is why this year we decided to introduce two new awards recognising the best students the district has to offer.

The first, Star Student - Under 16, honours the primary and secondary school pupils who are stand out students, not just for academic performance but also for their contribution to the school community and for overcoming adversity to inspire others.

The winner was a particularly inspirational young man, who had such a profound impact on one of his former teachers it inspired him to put Dawud Ghafar forward for the prize.

Year 11 student Dawud lost his father at a young age and has overcome a number of health complications, but his former maths teacher Khawer Iqbal said he always had a smile on his face.

Mr Iqbal said Dawud never creates a fuss and is always full of energy, determination and focus and was a “real pleasure to teach” and a “true inspiration”.

Laisterdyke Leadership Academy student Dawud, who aspires to be an electrical engineer, said: “I’m really proud to win, and I’m shocked I actually won it.

“My story can tell people that life isn’t always easy, but if you just keep going and try your best it will get better.

“My teachers have been so inspirational for me, especially Mr Iqbal, he has helped me through a lot of hard times.

“I was really surprised he had nominated me for this, it was quite overwhelming really. I just see myself as an everyday student.”

Laura Dawson, head of Year 10 at Laisterdyke, added: “He really is a star student, we are all really proud of him here at Laisterdyke.

“He has never got upset and has always stood up on his own two feet and become the man of the household.”

Highly commended for Star Student - Under 16 were Wycliffe CofE Primary’s wonderkid Macey Wood-Trice, and Grange Technology College’s hard worker Megan Wilkinson.