East Riding celebrates the achievements of care experienced children and young people

The East Riding Education Celebration Event took place on Thursday 1 October, recognising the achievements of care experienced children and young people.

The annual event celebrated success in education and personal development, recognising young people who have demonstrated determination, resilience, creativity and ambition. Awards highlighted not only academic achievement but also the progress and perseverance shown in overcoming challenges and reaching personal goals.

Award categories included Academic Achievement, Outstanding Academic Achievement, Culture Star, Rising Star, Determination Star, Turnaround Star, Positive Attitude to Learning, Care Leaver Achievement, Achieving Employment Aspirations, Young Person Seeking Safety, Health & Social Care Star, and Upcoming Music Star.

Children and young people attended alongside foster families, carers, teachers, social workers, and council leaders.

Awards were presented by Chairman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Councillor Linda Johnson, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, Councillor Victoria Aitkin, Executive Director of Children, Families and Schools, Merlin Joseph, Gary Clark from Connexin and Lucy Grace, East Riding Letterbox Coordinator for HEY Children’s University.

Councillor Victoria Aitken, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education said: “Our care experienced young people have so much talent, ambition and potential, and tonight has been a fantastic opportunity to celebrate their achievements.

“I’m incredibly grateful to our sponsors, Connexin, Global Legends, Riding Homes, Drewtons and Boyes Retail, whose support helps make events like this possible. By working together, we can create opportunities, raise aspirations and help young people gain the confidence and experiences that can make a real difference to their futures.

“Everyone who plays a part in these young people’s lives and future success has a role to play in helping them thrive. We want every young person to know they are valued, believed in and supported to achieve their ambitions.”

The event was organised by East Riding’s Virtual School, young ambassadors, fostering services and children’s social care teams, with young people helping to plan the evening and showcase their talents through music, drama and presentations.

Entertainment included a performance from Battle of the Bands winners Delirium, presentations from HEY Children’s University, and activities led by the young ambassadors.