STUDENTS attending their presentation evening were given an inspiring speech by former pupil turned BAFTA chief executive.

Richmond School head boy and head girl welcomed Amanda Berry OBE to its annual prize-giving evening and were given an insight into the work of the British Academy of Film and Television Awards.

The evening, with more than 200 youngsters plus parents and guests attending, included presentation of certificates and cups and a musical performance by sixth form singers.

The cups include the Trustees’ Award, with winner Matthew Napper chosen by the school trustees for excelling at a skills-based activity; the new John Blenkiron Memorial Award, awarded to Luke Salvin who has won an apprenticeship in the local area; the Governors’ Award, with winner Natasha Sedgewick picked from a shortlist presented to the school governors; and the Headteacher’s Award, awarded to Dan Dickinson for helping in the community.

The Trustees’ Award comes with a £150 prize and the John Blenkiron Memorial Award with £250 to pay for equipment to help further the students’ skills or apprenticeship.

There were also subject-based trophies given out to students who have excelled in the past year.

Headteacher Ian Robertson said: “It was a delight to welcome a huge audience recognising the achievements of so many young people at Richmond School.

“Our guest speaker Amanda Berry gave a great talk to students that demonstrated her aspiration to succeed.”