For a person or group who have excelled academically in anyway shown a passion for learning or helped others succeed in their educational journey. This award honours those who have demonstrated outstanding dedication, a passion for knowledge, resilience in overcoming challenges, and a commitment to personal growth. Whether excelling in academics, mastering a skill, or pursuing innovative educational activities, their achievements inspire others and highlight the transformative power of learning.
Winner: Leon O'Connor Ahmadi
Leon O'Connor Ahmadi is a remarkable Year 11 student whose perseverance and resilience have define his educational and personal journey. Despite significant learning difficulties and multiple foster care placements, Leon has shown unwavering dedication to his studies. He attends extra classes and works diligently at home, putting him on track to achieve good grades in his GCSEs.
Leon is a leader in his school community, serving as a sports leader and house captain, and actively working towards his Duke of Edinburgh Award. He has contributed to his school and foster agency by participating in staff interviews and by supporting new carers. In the community, he volunteers at various projects and has earned the Champion of the Community Award by Hetton Town Mayor.
Leon's determination has also led him to achieve a brown belt in karate and a Level 3 Food and Hygiene certificate. He embodies the values of respect, resilience, and excellence, making him a deserving winner of the Achievement in Learning Award. His story is a testament to the transformative power of learning, leadership, and resilience.
Highly commended: Molly Mitchell-Cook
Molly attends Northern Counties School sixth form in Newcastle. She is profoundly deaf and has autism. Molly achieved a grade eight in her GCSE art last summer, a testament to her hard work and determination.
Due to her deafness, Molly finds written English difficult, with British Sign Language (BSL) being her first language. Art provides her with a way to express herself without words. When her art teacher left school midway through her GCSEs, Molly persevered, teaching herself and others about different artists and concepts, and expanding her own creative output.
At home, Molly faces additional challenges as her mother has significant health problems and was hospitalised during Molly's GCSEs. Despite this, Molly remained focused on her studies, ensuring all her homework and coursework were completed, knowing how proud her mother would be of her achievements.
Molly's story is one of resilience and dedication, making her accomplishments in art even more impressive.
This Award is sponsored by Sunderland College.
Sunderland College is one of the largest providers of further and higher education in the North East. Part of Education Partnership North East - the top performing college group in the region for student achievement - the college was rated Outstanding by Ofsted in 2024, and offers a wide range of courses including technical and vocational, apprenticeships, A-Levels, T Levels, adult and Higher Education qualifications. Find out more at Home - Sunderland College
