Over 100 young people from Luton’s primary, secondary, two academies and colleges are to receive awards in recognition of their outstanding achievements in academics, music and sports at the fourth annual African Caribbean Pupil Achievers Awards.

The awards evening organised by the African Caribbean Community Development Forum (ACCDF) with support from Luton Borough Council’s School Improvement Service, will highlight some remarkable achievements including Jadene Taylor of Putteridge High School and Joseph Popoola of Challney Boys High School achieving 15 A*-C grades at GCSE. Other outstanding pupils include Noris Nyamekekye who was one of the top ten achievers nationally in obtaining A* GCSE in German, Shaun McLeod of Putteridge High who achieved 3A* and 5 A GCSE grades and Simone Robinson also from Putteridge High School who gained 3 A* and 6 A GCSE grades.

The evening will also be celebrating the achievements of young people at key stages one, two and three.

Cllr Tahir Khan, Executive Member with responsibility for Children’s Services said: “These awards are a testament to the hard work and commitment of pupils and schools who are determined to raise achievements and this is a great way of recognising their success. Well done to all staff and pupils.”

Jeremy Crook OBE, Director BTEG Black Training and Enterprise Group will be the keynote speaker and a motivational address will be delivered by historian, author, lecturer, and one of the UK’s leading Black history and culture specialists, Andrew Muhammed (aka The investigator).

Pupils and guests will be treated to a diverse entertainment package on the night including X Factor contestant Imani, young vocalists Sherese and Tyana, Luton Jazz Orchestra performing Ska pieces, Luton Youth Steel Orchestra, Barnfield Academies Choir and poetry from the Black Writers Group.

David Campbell, African Caribbean Community Development Forum said:  “This event forms part of a wider joint strategy to raise attainment levels and we hope it will be a catalyst which inspires more of our young pupils to reach their full potential."