Bishop Auckland Town Council’s Youth Awards is designed to give recognition to outstanding young people in Bishop Auckland. This year, we are proud to announce that our students won four awards!

Award winners and their families were invited to attend a red-carpet event at Bishop Auckland Town Hall, with over 100 dignitaries and guests in attendance on the evening. They were greeted on the carpet by Mayor Sam Zair.

Yoyo C in Year 12, who was nominated by her Drama Teacher, Miss Howard, won the Young Achiever Award, which recognises an individual who inspires others with their positive attitude and determination in overcoming social barriers in life. In her nomination, Miss Howard spoke of the compassion and enthusiasm which makes YoYo an outstanding role model for younger students and an exceptional ambassador for the community.

Nominated by Deputy Headteacher, Mr Longstaff, Year 9 student, Danny R was presented with the Young Person Act of Bravery Award, which recognises someone who has shown great strength and bravery in dealing with a challenging situation. Danny found himself in an incredibly difficult situation when he discovered a distressed local resident who wanted to end their life, but thanks to his quick thinking and empathy he was able to talk to them until help arrived, therefore preventing a terrible tragedy.

The Big Dig Team, nominated by Headteacher, Mr Whitehead, received the Team of the Year Award for their participation in the Bishop Big Dig, an archaeology project in partnership with Durham University and the Auckland Project. This saw students conduct a number of archaeological digs at various sites around Bishop Auckland to discover more about our local history; this project also featured on the BBCs television programme, ‘Digging for Britain’.

Finally, Year 11 student, Thomas B was presented with the Nic Cooper Award. This award was named in honour of Nic, a former winner of the Inspirational Young Person Award in 2019, who sadly passed away. Thomas received the award for the skill and determination that has earned him the title of UK Muay Thai Boxing Champion. Thomas was nominated by Assistant Headteacher, Miss Short, who also teaches PE at King James.

All guests enjoyed an afternoon tea before the ceremony began and winners received a personalised trophy, certificate and gift voucher, presented on stage by the Mayor and award sponsor. Overall it was a fantastic evening enjoyed by students and family members alike.