A GROUP of community-spirited youngsters have been chosen to represent a popular school as its first ever prefects.

The chosen pupils at Wanstead High School, in Redbridge Lane West, were given their new roles as a reward for the hard work and good behaviour they have shown over the past year.

Samson Olusanya, deputy headteacher at the school said the prefects were selected to provide role models for other youngsters and work to improve the school's ties with local residents and shopkeepers.

He said: "We launched our prefect initiative this term at Wanstead High School as a reward for our many excellent students and to encourage positive behaviour.

"We believe that prefects are carrying out an important role by encouraging student participation in many aspects of school life.

"They act as peer mentors and welcome visitors to our school at celebration and open evenings. Our prefects have been excellent role models for peers and younger students and we are delighted with the enthusiasm and commitment they have brought to this new and challenging role.

"We also intend to use our prefects to play a very positive role in the local community by encouraging good behaviour and intervening to help where they can.

"Younger students can approach our prefects if they would like some support or advice.

"The status of prefect is one that many students now aspire to and I am confident that prefects at Wanstead High School will play an increasingly positive role within and beyond our school gates for years to come."