Filmmakers at Teach First, a charity that addresses educational disadvantage, captured on camera the inspirational work of Bedford Academy teacher Albert Adeyemi.
In the film, called Representation, Albert is shown mentoring groups of boys and talking to them about the importance of open and honest discussions about race and representation.
The seven-minute film captures Albert passionately encouraging his students to aim high and find ways to express themselves through the spoken word.
This week, the film fought off stiff competition from across the country to win the ‘People’s Choice’ category of the national Charity Film Awards.
Albert, together with Bedford Academy’s Deputy Head Pete Roberts and two students featured in the film, Muthir Jamal and Theodore McKoy-Campbell, collected the award at a ceremony in central London.
Albert said the film vividly conveyed the ‘impact and power of mentoring’.
“It shows that representation really matters for so many reasons, from challenging stereotypes and misconceptions to enriching the experiences of all students. Representation benefits everyone,” he said.
Albert, who has taught at Bedford Academy for four years, said taking two students to the awards evening in central London had been “really special”.
“The whole experience has been so positive, especially because it was so unexpected,” he said.”
Chris Deller, Head of Bedford Academy, which is part of HEART Academies Trust, said: “As a school community, we are delighted that Albert has received the recognition he deserves.”
“Our mentoring sessions are an important part of the support we give students throughout their time at Bedford Academy.”
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