TWO North Ayrshire Schools picked up top gongs at the Scottish Education Awards.

The glitzy ceremony was held at the Doubletree by Hilton in Glasgow on Wednesday June 7.

St Winning’s Primary School scooped the Making Languages Come Alive Award. Walter Smith, who acts as a business advisor to pupils from S3 – S6 at Greenwood Academy, picked up the prestigious Educational Supporter of the Year Award.

Representatives from the North Ayrshire schools attended the award ceremony to collect the coveted awards.

John Butcher, Executive Director for Education and Youth Employment, said: “This is the third year in succession that North Ayrshire has enjoyed success at the Scottish Education Awards and we are delighted that the outstanding work of our staff and pupils continues to be recognised.

“These latest awards give us further evidence that standards across the authority continue to improve, with clear evidence emerging that we are improving attainment and achievement and are closing the poverty-related attainment gap.

“We believe that children should have no poverty of aspiration, ambition or opportunity and education is key to unlocking their potential – awards such as these clearly highlight the tremendous strides we are making.”

Largs man Walter who is a volunteer, was nominated for his role at the school has for more than 12 years he has played a key role in supporting the school’s vision to raise attainment and achievement for pupils.

Mrs Christine McGuire, Head Teacher of Greenwood Academy said: “Walter’s tremendous contribution to Greenwood Academy is highly regarded by pupils, staff, parents, North Ayrshire Council, and our wider community.”

The Scottish Education Awards recognise and reward the people who dedicate their lives to children and young people and showcase the valuable work and innovation happening in classrooms across the country