TWO students have been celebrating after scooping awards during a black tie gala.

Everyone at the Accrington Academy was delighted after the pupils, Jordan Sutton and Thomas Pickup, won accolades at the United Learning's National Best in Everyone Awards.

The awards ceremony, which took place at Cutlers' Hall in Sheffield, celebrates the achievements of pupils and staff at schools across the country. This includes awards for academic excellence, extracurricular achievements and for service to school communities.

Each of the academy's students were nominated by their teachers and saw-off strong competition to win in their respective categories.

A keen dancer and choreographer, Sixth Former Jordan took his ideas from working with Accrington Academy’s School Dance Company to the Manchester Auditions for ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ last year.

Most recently, his success has included a performance at regional U.Dance platform with The Lowry in Manchester.

He said: "I was speechless - it was fantastic that out of so many students from across all of the United Learning schools, I actually won an award."

Year 11 student Thomas showed similar musical talent, embracing a variety of genres and instruments.

Thomas now regularly performs at open evenings, assemblies, concerts and in local events. Teachers say he has impressed them with the way he challenged himself to learn complex piece of music.

The keen musician, who also preformed at the event, said: "I was excited to perform at the actual awards ceremony, but was nervous as it was the largest audience that I had ever performed in front of.

"Once I started though, I really enjoyed it and I was really happy to actually receive an award.”

Proud headteacher James Kerfoot said both of the students deserved the level of recognition they were receiving.

He said: "For Jordan, his commitment, creativity and enthusiasm is second to none in sharing current and engaging choreography with other students.

"Thomas is likewise an incredibly talented, versatile performer who has come a significant way during his five years at the academy. We are very proud of them and look forward to following what will undoubtedly be successful careers for each of them in their disciplines."