‘Rising Superstar’ Alexander scoops national Inspire Award at the Scottish Parliament

Talented Mere Green Primary School pupil Alexander-George Rusu stepped up to receive a prestigious national award for academic excellence at Edinburgh’s Scottish Parliament.

Alexander, aged six, was among the 37 winners to attend the UK’s biggest ‘Inspire Awards’, which celebrate the outstanding talent and achievements of five to 17-year-olds.

The popular Year 1 pupil has been recognised as a ‘Rising Superstar’ and won his award in the ‘Academics’ category.

Alexander’s mother, Laura Toader, said:

“We are so proud of Alexander and this success – he is a high achiever in all areas. His academic excellence, growth mindset, commitment to learning, as well as his love for extracurricular activities and this award, will hopefully inspire other children to reach their full potential.”

‘The Inspire Awards 2023’ are a new initiative from the British Youth International College (BYITC), which was founded in 2015 by Glasgow-based academic and educator Dr Rashmi Mantri. The awards recognise ‘Super Achievers’ young people from all backgrounds who have excelled in fields including the environment, sports, media, art and creativity, science, technology, engineering & mathematics (STEM) and academics.

Kristal Brookes, headteacher of Mere Green Primary School, which is part of the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP), said:

“Huge congratulations to Alexander on this incredible achievement. He is a wonderful pupil who enjoys school and excels both inside and outside the classroom and is a real inspiration to those around him.”

The high-profile judging panel included Professor Eleanor Shaw OBE (Associate Principal of the University of Strathclyde), entrepreneur Dr Poonam Gupta OBE (Chief Executive of PG Paper, an international paper company based in Scotland), Derek Timpany MEd, CMgr, FCMI (Education Management Professional/Consultant), and Bill Buchanan OBE (Professor at Edinburgh Napier University).

For further information on the ‘Inspire Awards’ please visit: https://www.byitc.org/inspire-awards-super-achievers-spotlight/

Photo 1: Alexander with his award.

Photo 2: Anas Sarwar, leader, Scottish Labour Party, Dr Rashmi Mantri, BYITC founder, Derek Timpany, education consultant and category judge, Alexander and Jade Dupont, from category sponsors Dupont Associates.