MORE than 200 high-achieving students from secondary schools in Waltham Forest were presented with Jack Petchey Achievement Awards at a ceremony.

The event, held at the Assembly Hall in Forest Road, Walthamstow, honoured 201 award winners aged from 11 to 25 who received medals, a certificate and £200 for their school.

Twenty one adult leaders also received medals for demonstrating their ability to motivate young people.

Student award winners included James Barratt, aged 14, from Waltham Forest Rush Croft Sports College in Rushcroft Road, Chingford, who won an award because of his excellent test results despite being dyslexic.

Isobel Jasper, aged 13, from Highams Park School, was nominated for her participation in many aspects of school life including sports and raising money for charity.

Chris Kiernan, executive director of children and young peoples services at Waltham Forest Council, said: "There are 13,500 students in Waltham Forest schools and I am proud of them all, but tonight we have seen the very best at a fantastic and inclusive evening - well done to you all.”

Entertainment was provided by Heathcote School Steel Pans, and SOX Dance group from Tom Hood School and singer, Camara Fearon, from performing arts group Estate of the Arts.

Twenty four schools are on the Jack Petchey awards scheme which is now worth an annual £41,400 to schools in Waltham Forest.

To date almost £3 million has been awarded to youth organisations in the borough since funding began in 2001.