Terrington St Clement’s High School presented with inaugural award in memory of student Eboni Bunn who died last year

A secondary school in West Norfolk has received an award in memory of a former student.

St Clement’s High School in Terrington St Clement has been given an award to honour the life of Eboni Bunn, who suffered from several health conditions and died in February last year at the age of 19.

The award, which has been set up in her name, rewards “exemplary service”.

It was made to the school at the request of Eboni’s mother, Lisa Belverstone, to mark the help and support the school gave to her.

“Eboni’s mum was asked who she would like to receive the award,” said Karen Street, pastoral support at St Clement’s.

“She was kind enough to think of us as the first recipients of what will be an annual award.

“Eboni joined St Clement’s in Year 10 and quickly embraced life here, and was a well-loved and enthusiastic member of her peer group.

"Her zest for adventure and seizing the day was evident when she attended the Year 10 paintball trip.”

Ms Street added: “She was supported by her form tutor, one-to-one support, teachers, peers and pastoral officer.

“Her mum was always available if a call was needed, and was key in communicating Eboni’s needs. We also saw Eboni attend her end-of-year Year 11 prom.”

The award was created by the Eboni Bunn Foundation, which was established by Eboni’s brothers, Luke and Ryan, to raise money in their sister’s name.

“After Eboni passed, her two brothers started raising money in her name. Part of this has resulted in the award that is presented to someone who has had a positive impact on Eboni’s life,” Ms Street explained.

The award was also supported by the Hunstanton and District Rotary Club, which helped to fund an electric wheelchair for the teenager, as well as a family holiday to Canada.

Head teacher Nigel Willingham received the inaugural Eboni Bunn Award from Eboni’s mother in front of an audience of around 50 guests.

The presentation was part of a Changeover Night hosted by the Rotary Club at Heacham Manor Hotel.

Also representing the school at the celebration was Ms Street and Eboni’s form tutor, Sally Wood.

Ms Street said of the presentation: “Receiving an award of this nature from the family is very humbling.

“Eboni was a unique, strong, well-loved individual who was a credit to herself, her family and our school.

“Knowing that in some small part, you have been able to have a positive impact which is remembered beyond the young person’s time in school is truly wonderful.

“Eboni was, and always will be, part of our school community. She is remembered with much fondness for her strength of character and incredible gift of grasping every opportunity with both hands.”

She added that the school will be holding a future event in Eboni’s name to raise funds for the Eboni Bunn Foundation.

Reporting by Amelia Platt​​​​​​