STUDENTS were recognised for their effort and performance throughout the academic year at a prestigious awards ceremony last week (Thursday, July 4).

LVS Ascot held a celebratory ceremony for the pupils, where The Mayor of Bracknell Forest, Councillor Pauline McKenzie honoured pupils for their achievements.

The head pupils presented their 'emotional' leaving speeches.

Megan Du Toit, head girl at LVS, said: "To the future Head Girls sitting in this hall today, believe in yourselves - do not let anyone doubt you or tell you differently. Strive towards your goal and most of all, be yourselves."

The mayor thanked everyone for the warm reception she received and sent her congratulations to all the students who received a recognition award for their achievements.

She said: "It was such a pleasure to witness their joy and so well deserved.

"The school has created a warm, friendly culture and the speeches were excellent and heartfelt."

Subject prizes were presented to each year group from year 7 to year 13.

There were also outstanding academic achievement awards for years 7, 8 and 9 won by Harrison Thomas, Angelina Yu and Charlotte Reid.

William Brooke was recognised for the year 9 awards for Chemistry and music and the Ceclia Smiga Memorial Award, in memory of the school's former director of music who passed away in 2013.

Vicky, Williams mother, said: "William has developed hugely with his music here. He is taking piano tuition from the Director of Music Mr Bryant and has been given lots of opportunities to play at school events.

"His confidence now to just get up and perform at school events in front of hundreds of people is amazing, it is a real gift to give that to a child at such a young age."

The LVS Infant and Junior School celebrated their achievements on July 3, marking the development and progress of 214 pupils from reception class to year 6.