Going above and beyond

Claremont High School celebrates its most recent Jack Petchey Achievement Award winners 

The Jack Petchey Achievement Award is given to students who have demonstrated outstanding attributes and qualities within a range of areas and disciplines. They are recognised with a certificate, badge and a £300 grant. The recipient decides how to spend the grant in a way that benefits other students at their school. The winners are also invited to an awards ceremony where they are presented with a medal. 

Among the successful students at Claremont High School this Autumn Term was Jiya Kanbi in Year 9, who was nominated by the Head of Music, Mr Williams: ‘Jiya has made an exceptional contribution to school life through her enthusiasm, leadership and dedication to the arts. As a talented performer, she has inspired younger students by confidently performing in assemblies and showcasing her musical ability at our new “Busking Station” and helping to bring creativity and joy to the wider school community.’  

Jiya was delighted to be named a winner: ‘When I found out I’d won, I felt incredibly proud and excited. It was very rewarding to know that all the hard work I put into music had been noticed. Winning the award made me feel even more motivated to keep pushing myself and to continue growing as a musician.’ 

For these reasons, Mr Williams believes Jiya is the ideal advocate for music at Claremont: ‘Beyond her performances, Jiya has demonstrated outstanding commitment as a Music Ambassador, taking responsibility for monitoring practice rooms, supporting other students and helping to organise key events, such as the Harvest Festival, which raised vital donations for a local foodbank. Jiya’s kindness, initiative and willingness to give her time to others make her a wonderful role-model and a thoroughly deserving recipient of the Jack Petchey Achievement Award.’ 

Jiya’s already given careful thought to how she might spend the grant: ‘I’m recommending that the money be spent on a music carnival. It would be a great way to celebrate creativity, bring people together and give students a chance to showcase their talents. A music carnival would have a fun, positive impact on the whole school community. 

‘I would love to help the school in a way that will benefit everyone across all years. I would also build on my goals to one day become a singer and musician. I want everyone to see music the way I do, which is life-changing, full of emotion and care.’ 

This term’s other Jack Petchey Achievement Award recipients were Kainat Sharnaz in Year 11 and Neel Kerai in Year 13. 

Kainat was nominated by Ms Constance: ‘Kainat has shown exceptional courage and determination in the face of significant personal challenges. Despite living with multiple medical conditions and facing frequent hospital visits, she continues to approach school life with remarkable positivity and resilience. Kainat’s commitment to her education is truly inspiring. She attends whenever she can and gives 100% in every lesson. Her strength, perseverance and fighting spirit make her a shining example to others and a truly deserving recipient of the Jack Petchey Achievement Award.’ 

Mr Goddard nominated Neel: ‘Neel is an outstanding member of the Sixth Form whose leadership, maturity and commitment to the school community make him a truly deserving recipient of the Jack Petchey Achievement Award. Throughout his time at Claremont, he has consistently embodied the school’s core values of aspiration, perseverance, excellence, enjoyment and respect. His commitment to the wider school community is equally impressive. Neel has been a regular and reliable volunteer at school events for several years, including open evenings, Sixth-Form recruitment days and charity fundraisers. Whether assisting staff, mentoring peers, or setting a strong example through his work ethic and use of study periods, Neel continues to go above and beyond. His integrity, initiative and dedication to helping others make him a remarkable role-model and a fitting recipient of this award.’ 

‘I felt extremely honoured and grateful to receive the award,’ says Neel. ‘It was encouraging to know that my efforts within the school community, especially in Design Technology, had been recognised by several members of staff. The award serves as a meaningful reminder of the value of contributing positively to the school environment.’