Overseas pupils at top school win UK prizes

TWO international pupils studying in the Lothians have been chosen as winners of a UK-wide competition to celebrate the contributions made by overseas students.

Loretto School pupils Jacqueline Lau from China and Phillip Bückendorf, from Germany, were winners in the International Boarders of the Year Competition 2009.

The annual awards celebrate the contribution that international pupils make to all aspects of UK boarding school life.

Sixth form student Phillip Bückendorf said: "When I joined Loretto I did not speak or write fluent English. One year on I cannot quite believe that I have won this title.

"It is a tremendous achievement for me and I am very proud."

Loretto's headmaster Peter Hogan said: "Loretto welcomes students from as many as 15 different countries around the world and they all bring a diverse range of cultures which enhance Loretto for everyone.

"Phillip and Jacqui have grown in confidence since they arrived here and their achievements today pay tribute to all our international students who embrace the opportunities that an all-round education like Loretto's offers."