A TEENAGER who won a life-changing scholarship at Warminster School after appearing in a national television documentary has been singled out for a prestigious prize by his head teacher.

Brett Riley, 18, was a pupil at The Bemrose School, in Uttoxeter New Road, when he captured the hearts of millions of TV viewers during the ITV programme School Swap: The Class Divide.

He was among a group of pupils who swapped lives with a group from Warminster School and as a result of his enthusiasm, Brett was offered a £27,000-a-year scholarship to study in Wiltshire.

As he nears the end of his four years at the school, Brett was awarded the Headmaster’s Prize in recognition of his significant contribution to the school in unusual circumstances.

Headteacher Mark Mortimer chose to honour him during the annual Speech Day attended by governors, parents and former pupils.

Mr Mortimer said: “Brett is perhaps the greatest example amongst the pupils of successfully and inspiringly stepping out of one’s comfort zone. This is his final term after four splendid years at the school.

“I am very proud of him, of the journey he’s been on and of the fine young man he has become. He has had to overcome many challenges and setbacks and has done so superbly.

“I still get asked about him by visitors, something that has happened regularly since he and I first met. I am proud to tell people that Brett has become a responsible young man, who is a prefect in his boarding house.

“He has worked in the school kitchen to earn extra money and the head of catering rates him highly. “Brett is a tremendous role model – he is kind, gentle and a good friend to day pupils and boarders.

“He has embraced life here at Warminster and made a great contribution particularly with his sporting endeavours becoming an accomplished fencer and excellent rugby player.

“Brett is a tremendous role model. He is now the architect of his own future and hoping to go to university. He is a thoroughly nice young man and I am extremely proud of him.”

Brett’s £27,000 a year place at Warminster School was supported by The Bemrose School, which made a donation towards the cost of education and additional expenses such as uniform, school trips and extra-curricular activities.

Brett, who leaves the school on June 28, said: “I was so proud to stand on the stage and receive my award and share this wonderful, emotional moment with the headmaster.

“Thank you for the life-changing opportunities, experiences and giving me the chance to meet some amazing people and create memories I will never forget.” He has been studying the International Baccalaureate career-related programme and aims to go to Staffordshire University to take a degree in Business.