The Tribune

RBC ROYAL Bank says it will continue supporting the Bahamas Primary School Student of the Year Awards.

The programme has become a highly anticipated end of school year treat for the Bahamas’ primary education community.

Each year teachers, parents and students alike are spurred on by the generous scholarships and prestige the programme provides for young persons throughout the country.

Entering its 18th year, the programme has awarded over $800,000 in scholarships and prizes since its inception and has inspired students to strive for excellence by rewarding distinction in academics and extracurricular achievements.

Nathaniel Beneby, Managing Director, Bahamas, Cayman and Turks and Caicos Islands said: “RBC shares the award programme’s commitment to empowering young persons to fulfil their dreams as leaders and dynamic contributors to their communities.

“We are excited to continue our partnership for the tenth consecutive year.”

Founded by Ricardo P Deveaux, President & CEO, the programme was designed to salute the achievements of young achievers in their final year of primary school, grade 6.

The first award was presented on June 9, 1997. 31 students representing all New Providence schools made up the cohort of the first nominees at the inaugural awards ceremony.

The programme has grown over the years to 123 nominees representing schools from New Providence and all of the Family Islands.

Each primary school is given the opportunity to select one outstanding 6th grade student as the school’s nominee.

The primary school student of the year is selected based on criteria such as academics, leadership, contribution to campus, community and religious life and community involvement. All nominees submit an application portfolio and are judged by an independent panel.

The 2014 Bahamas Primary School Student of the Year will be held in May 2014.

To download a copy of the 2014 application form or for further information visit http://bahamaspstoy.org/.