Children who excel in english and maths were recognised at the ceremony held at Goldsmiths University

More than 200 children who completed the after-school Kumon programmes attended the event at Goldsmiths University.

Gold, silver and bronze certificates were presented to pupils from the Abbey Wood, Woolwich, Thamesmead, East Dulwich, Kennington and Peckham study centres.

The awards are given to students who are above the normal level for their age group in reading, writing and arithmetic.

Eight-year-old Brandon Thompson, who attends the Woolwich study centre, received bronze and silver for maths and English as well as a special student of the year award for outstanding achievement.

His parents Claudia and Robert said: “Brandon used to be slow with his schoolwork, but since we started Kumon he’s been doing very well – especially in English.

“Kumon has definitely helped him to be more disciplined, and he is very good about doing his worksheets. It’s also helped with his confidence, as he is doing very well all round now.’ Kumon is an organisation which uses techniques developed in Japan to improve students’ academic performance.

Instructor at the Woolwich centre, Laura Obasi, said: “It is very rewarding to see the children progress both at school and in their Kumon programme.

“I am proud to be part of the difference in young people's lives in my community."