YOUNGSTERS who have turned their academic prospects around took centre stage at the Oakfield Project when their teachers paid tribute to their hard work today.

The school offers an alternative to mainstream education for pupils who are not achieving their full potential in a traditional school environment.

On Tuesday morning each of the pupils marked their final days at the campus off Marlowe Avenue having completed either one or two years of study with their end of term awards ceremony having completed their final exams on Monday.

Nigel Pickering, Swindon Borough Council’s additional provision and reintegration manager, explained that quite often the pupils who came to Oakfield were having issues at their secondary schools and faced a number of difficulties, which made their achievements even more remarkable.

Head teacher Kim Tipper said that she and the staff were immensely proud of the pupils. She said: “We have all been involved in this journey of yours for the last one or two years and we all know at this point in time you are ready to move on. It has been a long journey for you, and the staff will miss you.

“We are a real family here. Sometimes the truth can hurt, but as you look back you will remember with fondness the lessons that have made a difference to you. Sometimes you have made mistakes, but you have learned from those mistakes – every day is a new day for you.

“Whatever you do in life there is going to be a little bit of Oakfield in you. No matter how hard something seems in life, no matter how the odds are stacked against you, don’t be frightened and don’t be put off. If you find it hard, try harder.”

Among those to be presented with awards were Karla-Jayne Childs who received certificates for English language, speaking and listening, maths, art, philosophy and ethics, food technology and also received the most improved student award.

Nikita McHugh was presented with awards for English language and boxing while. Dominic Jones was presented with certificates for English language, science, statistics, sport, rock climbing and fencing. Charlotte Dunne was praised for her work in English literature, philosophy and ethics and received the highest attendance award for a female pupil.

Tyrone Woodhams received the best attendance for a male pupil, along with an award for boxing and rock climbing. Keiran Bone was also praised for his English literature, maths, statistics and music.

Ruth Allmark received certificates for her work in art and college carousel, while Chloe Kyson took home an award for science. Ewin Francis received an award for his work in sport, and received two youth work awards as well as an award for his attendance. Ben Ind was rewarded for his high attendance and fencing.

Ana Cardoso received awards for both her Portuguese and English.

Along with the more formal academic awards there were some light-hearted presentations made to the pupils by other members of staff to reflect each of the pupils characters, including the titles of Mr Standup, Miss Sporty Spice, the resident cheeky chappy, the Oakfield fashionista and the darling of the project.

Mayor of Swindon Eric Shaw presented each of the pupils with their certificates and praised their hard work. He said: “I spent my life teaching and I had a simple philosophy - I never recognise failure. I thought everyone could succeed at whatever level and you are all examples of that.”