Recognises young people who have developed their skills, confidence and self-esteem and become more independent. This award celebrates a young individual or group who have shown remarkable personal development and resilience in overcoming challenges or achieving significant milestones. The winners demonstrate self-awareness, determination, and a commitment to becoming the best version of themselves. Whether through building confidence, developing new skills, or transforming their mindset, they inspire others with their journey of growth. This award honours their dedication to personal progress.
Winner: Robert Edwards-Middleton
Robert is a 15-year-old with a diagnosis of ASD. He transferred from Nottingham in Year 8, where his previous schools had an active risk assessment due to his volatile behaviour. Initially, Robert spent his days curled in a ball in the corner of a room, avoiding interaction with students and staff, and refusing to attend lessons.
Gradually, small steps were taken to help Robert come out of his shell and complete his education. He was given a desk in the corner to face the wall or the classroom, and sensory tasks were introduced. Slowly, Robert began completing tasks, and his desk was moved incrementally to encourage interaction.
Over time, students began speaking to Robert, and he responded with short answers. Eventually, he asked for his desk to be moved to a more central location, marking significant progress. Robert started forming relationships with other students, displaying resilience, humour, and excellent observational skills.
As his confidence grew, Robert took on responsibilities, such as monitoring sensory resources for other students. He became helpful and supportive towards vulnerable students and informed staff about happenings in the provision.
Robert is working towards seven GCSE subjects and his transformation from a withdrawn boy to an intelligent, sociable, and humorous young man is remarkable.
Highly commended: Allana Beeby
Allana's journey began in June 2023 when she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at the tender age of six. This diagnosis brought significant challenges, including the loss of her ability to walk and numerous physical changes, alongside the myriad difficulties associated with cancer and chemotherapy. Despite these obstacles, Allana's resilience and determination have been nothing short of remarkable.
Over time, Allana relearned how to walk, demonstrating incredible strength and perseverance. Her passion for dance never waned, and she triumphantly returned to dancing and competing with her local dance school.
Allana took part in a sponsored walk to raise funds for blood cancer research and the hospital where she receives her treatment. This is testament to her dedication to helping others and supporting the fight against cancer. In July, after more than two years of chemotherapy, Allana will ring the bell, marking the end of her treatment.
Allana's spirit is characterised by her humour, kindness, outgoing nature, and boundless energy. She embodies the essence of courage and positivity.
This award is sponsored by Hopespring:
Hopespring is an award-winning charity specialising in delivering quality services to children, young people and their families and providing therapeutic care. They have two Therapeutic Schools across four sites and an Ofsted Registered Family Centre.
