A 15-year-old boy accused of stabbing a much-loved teenager to death outside a Willesden school has denied murder.

The suspect, who cannot be named because of his age, is accused of knifing Quamari Serunkuma-Barnes, also 15, in the chest near the front gates of the Capital City Academy, in Doyle Gardens, on January 23.

Quamari, described as “ a role model to everyone” was pronounced dead after being taken to hospital.

A post-mortem gave the cause of death as haemorrhage and a stab wound to the chest.

The suspect appeared at the Old Bailey today for a short plea and trial preparation hearing.

He stood in the dock to plead not guilty to the single charge of murder.

Thousands attended Quamari’s funeral on March 10, filling the Sacred Heart Church, in Quex Road, in Kilburn, to hear family tributes to the ‘much-loved boy with a heart full of gold.”

His sister Piera Serunkuma-Hutton, said in a statement: “Everyone who knew my brother loved him to bits. He was such a good role model to everyone, old and young. He loved reggae music and could sing any song that came on the radio.

“He could make anyone laugh no matter the situation. He used to always send me pictures of outfits he should buy when he was going out with his friends.

“And, to all his friends that waited for hours and hours for him to get ready, my mum loves you all.”

Judge John Bevan QC confirmed the trial will start at the Old Bailey on 30 May.

The suspect was remanded in custody in secure accommodation.