LEYTON ORIENT star Adrian Patulea was on hand to deliver awards to schoolchildren at the recent Playing for Success celebration evening held at the Matchroom Stadium.
Pupils from South Grove, St Joseph's, Jenny Hammond, Gwyn Jones, Sybourn, George Mitchell and Connaught School for girls were all rewarded for their achievements.
Leyton Orient Community Sports Programme's 'Playing for Success' scheme aims to improve numeracy, literacy and ICT skills for pupils in the local area by using football, sport and the Olympics to motivate the kids to get involved in their learning.
Adrian Patulea said: "The event was very lively. I'm very glad I came to present the awards to the children.
"Children are one of the most beautiful things in the world and I love being around them seeing the joy and happiness of the children knowing they have achieved something. I never had any opportunities like this when I was growing up but I'm pleased to have been here to award those who have been doing the hard work."
The Romanian forward, in his first season at Brisbane Road, was full of praise of the programme and the hard work the mentors put in to make sure they children make huge steps in improving their learning.
He added: "The programmes here in the education centre are amazing. It is great because it keeps the kids on their toes. They are always willing to stay involved because the activities are fun and are so much different to normal lessons and getting homework. This is something I would like to be involved with in the future."
Sybourn Primary School Learning Mentor, Diane Thomas added: "We really try and pick students who will gain a lot out of the scheme. Some of the kids don't get opportunities to do much after school so the fact that they are in such a great environment where they are learning whilst having fun is really beneficial. The PFS scheme is run so well and every child's needs are met by the mentors and other members of staff. Working in a small group brings a lot out of them and boosts their confidence.
"Tonight is such a tremendous occasion for the participants and for their families as their hard work is recognized. The students from the years below see the current group with their certificates and trophies and know that they too can be given a chance to attend the scheme so it's good that it motivates the students to learn and want to achieve.
"As a school we have built an excellent relationship with LOCSP and wish to continue taking part in the Playing for Success scheme for many more years to come."
