A STUDENT from Fairford has been chosen out of 100 pupils nationwide to be mentored by a Paralympic gold medallist as part of a unique programme for young people.

Kaya Hilton who attends Coln House School is one of 21 students nationwide to be part the Unlocking Potential programme, after being nominated by his teachers.

The 16-year-old will be mentored during the programme by two time Paralympic gold medallist Graham Edmunds, after being nominated by teacher Louise Goode who said she felt he would really benefit from having a positive role model like Graham.

“I think this will really give him some focus and direction in life. Kaya is in his last year at Coln House and doesn’t really know what he wants to do after,” she said. “He has made real improvements socially since starting at the school and he was just completely overwhelmed by London as he had never visited before.”

The Unlocking Potential supports vulnerable 14 to 19 year olds facing challenging personal circumstances, such as Kaya who has some issues with behaviour.