One dedicated Ilford pupil, who has not a missed a single day of school in seven years, has been presented with extra special certificate on her last day in Year 6.

Eleven-year-old Lemar Mahamad, from Highlands Primary, Highlands Gardens, was given an award on Thursday for managing to achieve 100 per cent attendance since she started in reception class.

The student’s achievements were acknowledged at not one, but two assemblies organised, so she could set an example to those in the younger year groups.

Deputy head teacher, Chris James, said: “This is practically unheard of, to have absolutely no time off in such a long time is exceptional. Lemar must have managed to avoid all those viruses that go around each year or just carried on regardless.

“Lemar has done so well in all aspects of her education and this was a big surprise for her.”