Award-winning actress Olivia Colman added a third Bafta to her trophy cabinet on Sunday in the star-studded London event.
She won the award for her role in ITV drama Broadchurch.
Ms Colman, who is set to star in the second series of the show, burst into tears on stage after being named leading actress, saying: 'Oh sorry, not cool' then hailed the show's writer Chris Chibnall 'a genius'.
But recently the former Gresham's pupil swapped the bright lights of the red carpet for the corridors of her childhood school.
Norfolk-born Ms Colman returned to speak about her career and tell how the school's drama department helped her discover her passion for acting.
Sixth Form student Alicia Stark, who met the famous actress during her visit, has been offered a place at the National Youth Theatre.
When asked what her inspiration was, she said: 'Mr Hands, head of drama, is an incredible teacher and a real inspiration.'
Ms Colman had praised teacher Paul Hands in her acceptance speech at last year's TV Baftas where she won two awards for her roles in Twenty Twelve and Accused.
During her question and answer session at the school Ms Coleman said generosity and kindness were qualities which made a good actor.
She said how lucky she felt to have a job she loved.
Drama teacher Mr Hands thanked Olivia for giving her time to the school he said: 'The qualities of generosity, kindness and humanity, which she has praised in the actors she most admires, are the very ones that make her a great actor. We are all very proud of her.'
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