A Courier Gold Star has been awarded to St Paul’s Academy pupil, Lucie-Ann Wilson.
The 15-year-old received her Gold Star in recognition of her achievement in gaining one of only 20 places on a performing arts course at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, in Glasgow.
Lucie-Ann, from Ardler, was shortlisted from more than 1000 applicants then went through a gruelling audition process to make it onto the course.
She now travels every Sunday to Glasgow by bus for the junior course, while remaining committed to her school work during the week and caring for her brother who has ADHD and autism.
Her music teacher Tamsin Holbrook – who nominated Lucie-Ann for the Gold Star – and mum Mary-Ann Wilson both say the youngster goes ‘above and beyond’.
Lucie-Ann said: “When my mum told me I’d won the award I was shocked, speechless actually. I didn’t know what to say.”
After the news sunk in, Lucie-Ann was delighted with the award and has been proudly wearing her Gold Star badge at school.
Lucie-Ann’s love of musical theatre started in P2
She has been involved in musical theatre since she was six years old and performs with Stage Academy, in Dundee.
Her first lead role next summer will see her star as Anna in her school’s production of Frozen – a part she also gained through an audition process.
Tamsin, who is musical director for the show, said: “This is Lucie-Ann’s first leading role and is thoroughly deserved.
“Lucie-Ann struggles with her self-confidence and nerves. Singing is her outlet and she always goes above and beyond to help others.”
Mum Mary-Ann adds that on top of being extremely dedicated to her musical theatre, Lucie-Ann also supports the family by caring for her brother and grandparents.
She said: “She gave up her bed for her grandad when he had his leg amputated and she does a lot for her granny.
“She doesn’t realise how much she does, she’s so humble – she needs to start believing in herself, she is so hardworking and so caring.”
Want to nominate someone for a Gold Star?
Our Gold Star awards are aimed at recognising children and young people’s achievements, both in and out of school.
We are collecting nominations from the public through our online form. Winners of the award will receive one of our stunning badges and a certificate.
Full terms and conditions can be found here.
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