London South East Academies Trust students celebrate remarkable success

Over 40 awards were presented to young people from across Bromley yesterday evening, at a special event to celebrate their achievements.

The award winners are all (or have been) students at either Bromley Trust Academy or Bromley Beacon Academy. Both schools are part of London South East Academies Trust, providing support and teaching for children between the ages of 5-18, who require an alternative to mainstream education.

The glittering ceremony took place at London South East Colleges’ Bromley Campus. Awards were presented to students who have excelled in a wide range of areas – from behaviour, resilience and academic achievement through to sporting success and citizenship.

Special guest, Kevin George, spoke to the children and their families about his journey to success. Kevin started out as a professional footballer, playing for West Ham and Charlton Athletic before training to become a psychotherapist.

From there, Kevin went on to set up a special programme called ‘Soccology’ which combined his both his passion for football and his psychotherapy background.

Addressing the award winners and their families, Kevin George said:

“I didn’t have a huge amount of self-esteem towards academic work at school and felt that the two subjects I excelled in – art and PE – were undervalued. However, I learnt that although you can’t control how well you do something, you can control how hard you work.

“All of you here tonight have overcome challenges and I congratulate you all on your success. I am sure the awards you have won tonight will be your first of many.”

CEO of London South East Academies Trust, Dr Sam Parrett OBE, also spoke to award winners and their families, adding: 

“It’s fantastic to see so many of you collecting awards tonight. Your success is testament to the hard work you’ve put in, together with the support you’ve received from teachers, families and friends.

Tonight’s celebrations reflect the fact that with the right support – be that academic or emotional – anything is possible. You have all proved that with the right focus and attitude, any barriers to learning can be overcome.

This year nearly every single one of our leavers (97%) progressed into either college, an apprenticeship or employment. This is a remarkable achievement and I offer my thanks to staff at both schools for their continuous hard work.

“Congratulations to every award winner here tonight. You have made you families and your teachers very proud. Keep up the good work!”

Following the presentation of the awards, Executive Head teacher Neil Miller thanked the students, their parents and teacher for their hard work. He said:

“I am extremely proud of every single child who attends our schools. Tonight we are able to say a huge thank you and well done to a small number who have excelled in specific areas. I also want to say thank you to parents, carers and staff for their continuous support and hard work.”

Winners arrived to collect their awards supported by families, guardians and teachers:  

Lilly Morris (17) from Mottingham won an award for Numeracy. A former student at Bromley Beacon Academy (Bromley), Lily progressed onto a hairdressing course at London South East Colleges last month. Tutors have been so impressed with Lily’s talent that they have already moved her up to Level 2. Lily said:

“I was at BBA for two year. The teachers really helped me with my social and emotional issues, providing so much support and helping me to get where I am now. College is going well and I am planning to be a freelance hair and make-up artist.”

Liam Spicer (15) from Chislehurst attends Bromley Trust Academy (Hayes) and won an award for progress in KS4. Liam was praised by his teachers for his hard work and talent in maths. Liam said:

“It’s easier to learn at this school as classes are smaller and everyone is really supportive. My aim now is to achieve good GCSEs and then get a trade, either as a plumber or gas engineer. My advice to other students would be to keep your head down and work hard, as it will be worth it.”

Louie Jones (11) attends Bromley Trust Academy (Midfield). He won the Head Teacher Award for his hard work and was praised for exemplary attendance. Louie said:

“It’s a really good school and anyone coming here shouldn’t be worried as the teachers are very nice. I like the small classes and the playground. PE is my favourite subject and I want to be either a footballer or a zookeeper when I grow up!”

Aimee Jay Walker (16) from Crofton Park is a former Bromley Trust Academy (Hayes) student who has now moved to mainstream sixth form. She is studying for three A-Levels in Sociology, Photography and Business Studies and won an award for best GCSE outcomes having achieved 10 GCSEs. Aimee said:

“I grew up a lot during my time at BTA and the teachers were incredibly understanding and supportive. I am enjoying sixth form and am planning to go to university to study business.”

George O’Neill (10) from Penge is a former student at Bromley Trust Academy (Midfield) and has now moved back to mainstream school. He was given an award for Head Boy. He said:

“This is a very kind school, with nice teachers and less people in the classes so you get more support. I love maths but am planning on becoming a footballer.”

Felice Abate-Dunn (16) from Orpington has attended Bromley Beacon Academy (Bromley) since year 8. He was given the Head Teacher Award for his hard work and dedication. He said:

“The best things about this school are the staff and the lessons. I like the vocational lessons and plan to move to London South East Colleges to study hospitality at BR6. My advice to other students is to always listen to the teachers as they have your best interests at heart!”

Alfie Bunyard (12) from Orpington attends Bromley Beacon Academy (Orpington). He was awarded a prize for having a positive attitude to school, always having a smile on his face. He said:

“It’s absolutely amazing here. The lessons and the teachers are better than at any other school and I just love coming here every day.”