A STUDENT from Teesville has been presented with an award for educational excellence.

Stuart Wadlow, 16, from Teesside Training Enterprise, in Middlesborough, received the accolade for GNVQ learning at the OCR (Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations board) Recognising Achievement Awards 2002, in London.

Stuart trained for a GNVQ in engineering and was the only student in his group to attain a distinction.

He was presented with his award by BBC television newsreader and presenter Fiona Bruce.

His hard work and determination helped him to gain the highest overall portfolio mark out of all the students who were attending the course at the training centre.

He said: "I am often described as shy and quietly confident, but felt encouraged during a very enjoyable time studying engineering.

"I was determined to do well and was totally committed to my portfolio work, to obtaining the highest grades possible and proving to myself that I could do it.

"This award is a great honour as I believe my future lies with engineering."

OCR Recognising Achievement Awards are presented annually to learners of all ages and abilities who deserve recognition for their education and training efforts in gaining qualifications.