Wokingham

Dozens of Wokingham district’s young high achievers are expected to attend an awards ceremony at Bearwood College, Sindlesham on Wednesday November 1.

The ceremony is part of ‘Celebrating young people’s achievements’, an initiative that was originally set up at Bulmershe Youth Centre.

Wokingham District Council’s youth service, together with young people, will be celebrating local teenagers’ achievements over the past year. Individuals and groups will receive certificated national and local awards for a diverse range of projects from kayaking to babysitting.

Last year, more than 80 young people attended a similar ceremony along with their parents and friends. This year, categories will include youth achievement awards at both bronze and silver levels, Duke of Edinburgh Awards from bronze to gold, leisure credits and special awards for dedication by individual young people.

Award winners will receive a commemorative certificate presented by senior Wokingham District Council members and other local dignitaries.

The event commences at 7pm and will include lively street-dance performances, DJ’ing by second in the world champion DJ Ollie Parris and displays from other youth projects. The event also includes a free buffet.

Nigel Shaw, head of the Wokingham youth service, said: “So often the feeling is that young people do nothing but ‘hang around.’ This simply is not true and over the past year so many young people have taken part in a wide range of activities for which they have received either local or national awards.

“In welcoming the young people to this event we are recognising that for many these awards haven’t come easily. Behind each award is a personal learning journey beyond the award itself. In addition to being a celebration of young people’s achievements, it also enables the district council’s youth workers to celebrate.”

Cllr Malcolm Bryant, Wokingham District Council champion for youth and leisure said: “The district council’s youth service organises many great activities for young people that are challenging and a good example of the council and young people working together. We are pleased to invite people to attend on Wednesday November 1. I would especially like to congratulate everyone who receives an award. I hope they continue to be inspired to take part in future activities.”

Wokingham District Council