A BARNSLEY Academy pupil has been awarded a golden opportunity to study at Eton College after excelling in his GCSEs.
Deacan White, 16, achieved the grades he needed in order to secure the Orwell Award scholarship and a place at the prestigious school.
The Orwell Award is aimed at boys at a UK state school and recognises that academic achievement may sometimes have been held back by personal circumstance.
Only 12 youngsters receive the scholarship each year.
As part of the application process, which involved a thorough series of written assessments and interviews, Deacan had to demonstrate intellectual curiosity, an openness of mind and character, and the willingness to step outside his comfort zone.
Having now achieved his grades, he will be able to join the rest of his cohort at Eton to begin his A Level studies this autumn.
Alongside being a dedicated young pupil, Deacan has been highly involved in his school and local community.
As an elected member of the Barnsley Youth Council, he has represented his peers across the borough and the over 900 pupils at Barnsley Academy as a voice for young people.
He said: “I was overcome with emotions, and I am extremely excited for the upcoming years I will be at Eton.
“I’m forever grateful for all the help and support I have received throughout my journey, as all the people who have helped me will always remain an important part of my life.
“I cannot wait to start at Eton and begin a new chapter of my life.
“During my time at Barnsley Academy, I have had such a great selection of opportunities and support throughout each year I’ve been there.
“All members of staff have always been supportive of my learning and have always pushed me to be the best I can be.
“The school has helped to shape who I am today by building my character as well as helping me develop my understanding in subjects and in life.
“The school has pushed me beyond what I expected of myself, and as a result, they encouraged me to apply for Eton and have supported me through all my journey.”
Deacan’s mum Kim said she was so proud of her son.
She added: “Deacan is just such a star and has always had a strong love for learning.
“When he joined Barnsley Academy, he grew in confidence with each passing year.
“He strives to do his best in everything he puts his mind to.
“When he came home to inform me that Barnsley Academy had suggested he applied for the Orwell Award at Eton College, I just knew he would thrive.
“Barnsley Academy has been so supportive to Deacan - when he was offered the scholarship, staff celebrated with us and shared in our joy.
“This past year, Deacan has tried so hard to achieve his best and has been flourishing during his secondary years at Barnsley Academy.
“I can’t wait to see how far he goes now.”
His dad, David, added: “We are all so proud of Deacan and the amazing opportunities that Eton is going to give him.
“From nursery, through primary school, then secondary at Barnsley Academy he has always been working hard and impressed his teachers.
“When Deacan applied for Eton last year, although he was very excited for the opportunity he knew it would be a long shot and didn’t want to get his hopes up.
“When the acceptance email came through, we were all so proud, excited, and a little nervous for him.
“Since going to Eton over the summer and having a taste of what life would be like down there Deacan has been so excited and counting down the days to go.
“We are all very proud and cannot wait to see what the future will hold for him in this life-changing opportunity.”
