A WORLD-class fighter and a student described as ‘the voice of calm’ have received the highest honours at a school’s end-of-year prize-giving ceremony.

Martial arts expert Rebecca Boakes and exemplary student Thomas Pattison were awarded the coveted John Dennis Award at Northallerton School and Sixth Form College.

Named after a former chair of governors, the award is presented to the Year 11 boy and girl who, by their attitude, commitment and honourable conduct, have contributed most to the character and reputation of the school.

Rebecca, 16, of Northallerton, trains with the England karate squad and will represent her country at the Wado Kai World Championships, in Japan in August.

“It never even crossed my mind that I would be nominated for the John Dennis Award never mind win it,” she said.

“The fact that all of the tutors in school and all the students vote for the winner means so much and I feel extremely proud to be recognised.”

Thomas, 15, of Welbury, who received a rapturous round of applause on receiving his award, said: “This is a very big surprise – I can’t believe all my tutors kept it quiet from me.

“I didn’t even think I’d be in the running so I’m extremely shocked but very happy.”

Year 11 team manager Matthew Tucker added: “Tom is the voice of calm and reason within his peer group and Rebecca is always the go-to person to get anything done. They both represent the values that we want to instil in all our young people.”