Amazing pupils capture hearts at 2023 Lincolnshire Free Press and Spalding Guardian Education Awards
The resilience and strength shown by Kiya Clark in refusing to let a rare strain of mitochondrial disease hold her back was the reason why she was named Secondary School Pupil of the Year at this year’s Lincolnshire Free Press and Spading Guardian Education Awards.
Kiya was diagnosed after she began to suffer headaches and seizures from the age of six and the side-effects of the disease, which does not have a cure, include respiratory issues and muscle wastage.
She never gives up and is a happy youngster and has thrived since arriving at Spalding Academy.
Kiya said: “I feel very happy to have won.”
Her proud mum Rebecca Hilling said: “It is incredible - she was always a winner whether she won or not. I know how hard she works at everything she does.”
Head of school Jemma Curson added: “I am so very proud that Kiya is part of our school and she is always smiling.”
The award was sponsored by Duncan and Topliss and runners up were were Matthew Harper, of Cowley Academy, and Zion Serino-Jordan, of Bourne Academy.
The full list of winners can be found at our roundup here.
Isla Saterlay (13), of Spalding, won the Outstanding Sporting Achievement award, which was judged and sponsored by Snap Fitness.
The Spalding High School pupil said: “I am shocked to win - it means a lot.
“I got into trampolining during lockdown and loved it.”
Runners up were Leah Barker and Willow Gill – both fellow Spalding High School students with impressive sporting pedigrees.
Gosberton Academy’s Elliot Withers was named Primary School Pupil of the Year.
He won the Worldwide Fruit-sponsored award after consistently demonstrating outstanding leadership and support to his peers, as well as encouraging youngster students.
“It was a nice surprise,” said head boy Elliot, who had schoolmate Roelan Rishan also on the shortlist.
“We were talking about it at lunchtime and it was nice we were both there.
“It’s quite nice to help other students when they get stuck with work so they feel comfortable and won’t be shy to ask a teacher for help.”
Roelan Rishan was runner up.