Students and teachers in North East recognised for achievements

Students, teachers and school leaders from across the North East have received national recognition for their achievements and for making stand-out contributions to their communities.

Schools Minister, Baroness Berridge joined the virtual prize giving ceremony, praising the winners for their achievements, including Tom Smith, winner of the Pupil Academic Lord Glenamara Memorial Prize, alongside the Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson who also appeared in a video message to the winners congratulating them on their accomplishments.

Tom, from St Leonard’s Catholic School, Durham, was one of over 40 young people nominated for the Prize, and was hailed by Baronness Berridge as ‘an example to us all’ for his achievements both academically and for giving up his time to care for his mother, and 14 year old family friend, William, who has learning difficulties.

Tom Smith, winner of the Pupil Academic Lord Glenamara Memorial Prize, said: "I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Department for Education for recognising young peoples’ commitments to their community. I was shocked when I heard that I had won as my responsibilities are primarily in one-on-one care- working with both my mum, as a young carer, and my friend with Down’s Syndrome.

"This recognition is wonderful news for everyone like me, and I think by focusing on the work of individuals for individuals, awards like this will help to bring to light all of the amazing work people do every day for one another. I am humbled to receive this award, and accept it on behalf of every young carer and community-minded person, as a symbol of the government’s recognition of us.

This year there were nine winners of the prestigious Lord Glenamara prize, an annual award that shines a spotlight on talent from across the North East. Further prize categories were added this year to celebrate the great achievements and talents from young people across the region in technical education, emerging teaching talent and also those involved in pastoral care and careers education. The increased scope of the prize forms part of Opportunity North East (ONE), a programme aimed at improving educational and employment outcomes in the region.

Baroness Berridge also congratulated this year’s new Pupil Technical Award winner, Mufshana Yasmin from the City of Sunderland College, for her outstanding achievement in Psychology and Health and Social Care. Mufshana, who is following her ambition to become a nurse, has been carrying out work experience at a local hospital, whilst also giving her time to volunteer at the Alice House Hospice Charity Store.

Other prizes awarded this year include:

    Excellence in Maths - Marie Newbould, Carmel College, Darlington
    Excellence in English- Kay Straughan, Gillas Lane Primary Academy, Sunderland
    Excellence in STEM- Graham Davison, Newcastle Sixth Form College, Newcastle
    Most inspiring North East Headteacher/Principal - Dave Davies, Sedgefield Community College, Durham
    New North East Teacher of the Year- Louise Ripley, River Tyne Academy, Gateshead
    Pastoral Care Award- Emma Piper, Red Hall Primary, Durham
    North East careers leader- Alison Asprey, River Tees High Academy, Middlesbrough