Virtual School Awards celebrate achievements of care experienced young people

Care experienced young people were celebrated at a Virtual School celebration event, involving over 170 young people, their guests and professionals who support them.

Awards highlighted the achievements the young people have made, and each award was sponsored by a local organisation or benefactor.

Some of the young people received special awards including Olly, who was recognised for an outstanding achievement after gaining 11 GCSEs at high grades, and Natalie who received an award for excellent sporting achievements. She provided a dance at the event as part of the entertainment. They were presented with their awards by Connexin, who gifted tickets to events at the Connexin arena. Daniel received an award for outstanding progress and received a signed football from Hull City, presented by Run With It charity.

Picture: Olly, centre, receiving his award from Gary Clark, Strategic Partnerships Lead and Alex Yeung, Deputy CEO, Connexin, along with Tom Proud, virtual school education officer and Councillor Liam Dealtry, Chairman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council

Merlin Joseph, executive director for children, families and schools, introduced the award ceremony and presented personalised awards alongside Councillor Liam Dealtry, Chairman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council and Councillor Victoria Aitken, cabinet member for children, families and education.

Councillor Aitken said: “These young people have achieved some remarkable things, and it’s fantastic to take this time to acknowledge and celebrate their achievements.

“Working alongside our partners in health and education, we aim to provide care experienced young people with the support and opportunities they need to enable them to thrive.  The young people receiving awards showcase the resilience, talent, and determination that inspire all of us to keep building a brighter future for our care experienced young people.”

Hull and East Yorkshire Children’s University gave out certificates for children supported through the Letterbox reading project and the Step Up Move On programme which supports care experienced young people through their secondary education and helps them achieve their future aspirations.

Michael Rice, the High Sheriff of East Riding, was also a sponsor of the event providing a contribution to the young peoples’ rewards. Boyes retailer sponsored goody bags for all award winners.

The event showcased a range of entertainment from local band Empty Banner, with pupils from Beverley High School and Longcroft School, to a caricaturist and photo booth capturing mementos of the evening.

Picture: Band Empty Banner

The event also provided an opportunity for young people to learn more about the Children in Care Council and the Care Leaver Forum, so that they can help influence the future of support provided to children and young people.