A PUPIL of Hanley Castle High School described as a "shining example" has been named a runner-up in a national award scheme.

Year Eight student Ethan Whittaker is one of three runners-up in the E-praise Student of the Year competition.

He was nominated for the award by his head of year Sam Cook, who said: "Ethan is relentlessly positive and Hanley Castle feels very lucky to have him as a part of our school. I know that Ethan is still missed hugely by his primary school."

Ethan said: "It was quite unexpected actually. When I came into school I thought it was just going to be a normal day, but when my form tutor told me the news I felt really happy. I have got so many ideas in my head and I think this award will give me the confidence to make a success of them."’

Head Lindsey Cooke said: "No student could have deserved this award more than Ethan. He is a shining example of all that is best of our students – motivated, kind and hugely resilient. We are all proud of his success and look forward to even greater achievements in the future."