TV star back at school in Watton

TV star Caroline Flack may have felt like a naughty girl when she returned to her old school, but yesterday she was not there to be ticked off.

In fact, pupils and staff at Watton's Wayland Community High School welcomed the Eurovision Song Contest presenter with open arms, inviting her to host their show celebrating the achievements of some of the school's high-flying students.

The accolades presented for academic, sporting, artistic and social achievements recognised the merits of dozens of pupils who reached the “very highest standards in so many areas of school life.”

And to celebrate some of the talents of the students, the school decided to bring in a “show business” flavour - with two of the school's dance groups performing for the event.

“It was the first time I came back in 12 years,” Caroline said, “And I felt like a naughty schoolgirl. The kids took me on a tour of the school and I still found my oak tree where we used to hang around, the smell of classrooms is still the same. I was even allowed to go to the staff room where I couldn't go in when I was a pupil. When I was at Wayland I used to sing in the school band. In my days there weren't any drama or art classes.”

The 27-year-old who spent four years at Wayland from 1991 said she was privileged to be invited back to her school.

“I was very happy to accept the invitation. Although I now live in London, I still keep in touch with friends from Norfolk. When I was here I knew I wanted to be what I am now. But, I'd say it takes a lot of hard work to come this far. All those who aspire to fame need to put in a lot of work first.”

Chris Dalton, events co-ordinator said many pupils would find inspiration from Caroline.

“Caroline has always been a very focused person,” he said.

“The awards ceremony which we hold annually celebrates students who reach the very highest standards in school life.”