A BRADFORD student who endured radiotherapy and had to learn online due to shielding has received a British Education Award (BEA).

Seb Murphy, a student at Bradford Grammar School, was diagnosed with a form of leukaemia aged just three and endured a bout of serious treatment when it returned – eventually needing a transplant.

Still struggling with breathing and low energy levels, stout-hearted Seb was unable to enter class for 18 months yet studied in an isolation ward and scored nine GCSEs – all at high grades.

“In terms of bravery, fortitude and stout heartedness you simply cannot match Seb,” said Amin Babor Chowdhury, from the BEA, who presented Seb with a Special Achievement Award. “Perhaps when we are tempted to judge young people, we ought to remember the circumstances they sometimes find themselves in.

“How many of us could muster such resilience to study hard when so sick, and to then give something back to the community – truly amazing.”

Mr Chowdhury was referring to Seb’s work with the school’s Interact Club, which raised money for local, national, and international charities, between Years 7 and 11. Among the charities supported was Teenage Cancer Trust. In the Sixth Form, Seb remains involved in fundraising initiatives and participates in some academic clubs such as the history and politics societies.

Seb’s nominator for the awards added: “A teenager facing such a difficult set of circumstances as Seb could be forgiven for putting their education on the back burner or throwing in the towel altogether. That’s not Seb’s style, though. He is a shining example of everything this school stands for.”

Presented to students across the four nations and at all academic levels, The British Education Awards reward the cream of academia.

“It is important to remember that the successes students have achieved this time have been set against learning during and immediately after the pandemic,” added Mr Chowdhury. “They have negotiated their way through an unprecedented time and whilst we truly celebrate Seb, we also salute students and all who have taught and supported them. They are all, national heroes.”

Following a nomination procedure, the British Education Awards are judged by a team of leading academics, authors, and members of the business community.

This year’s awards ceremony was hosted at the Hilton Hotel in Manchester and began with supporting messages via letter, from His Majesty the King and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.