Luna Rupchand scoops the Teacher Support of the Year category at the Diamond Ball Awards

A dedicated teacher from Queens Park, with more than three decades of experience, has been rewarded for her hard work after picking up a prestigious award on a night of double success for Queens Park Community School.

Luna Rupchand, who is Head of English at the school, in Aylestone Avenue, was given the Teacher Support of the Year award at the Diamond Ball Awards, an awards ceremony celebrating teachers and students.

Ms Rupchand has taught tens of thousands of students and has also focussed particular efforts on developing the inclusion and attainment of black students.

Emma Jayawardene, head of design and technology at the school, said she rightfully deserved the award.

Ms Jayawardene, who was taught by Luna as a teenager and is now working alongside her as a colleague, said: “Luna’s teaching has always stayed with me and she is one of the reasons I am a teacher today.

“She was an inspiration when I was a student and continues to be so. She works tirelessly to motivate and encourage all she teaches as well as staff.

“When I meet former students, the first thing they say to me is ‘Is Ms Rupchand still there?’ That in itself is a true testament to her.”

The ACES Diamond Ball Awards is a student’s achievement awards event celebrating students and teachers of African and Caribbean heritage.

There was also success for year 10 student Jade Powell-Watson who received an award for her contribution to extracurricular activities.

Jade started the school’s dance troop and has performed in the school parade in full carnival costume.

She also held a work placement at Mahogany Arts, the costume designers of the Notting Hill Carnival.

She was nominated by the school’s co-ordinator, Alison Hook, who described her as a “model student”.

She said: “She freely gives her time and is a role model to her peers and younger students.

“I am very proud of her and wanted to find a way to thank her for such valuable contributions to school life.”