Croydon is to celebrate the talents and successes of young people looked after by the local authority with a new high-profile event hosted by British author and broadcaster Lemn Sissay.
Nominations are now open for Croydon’s first ever STAR Awards, which will be held in the borough on 24 October 2018, and recognise the achievements of young people in care aged 8-18 and care-leavers to the age of 25.
Anyone – foster carers, teachers, families and members of the community – including young people – can nominate a young person for something special they have done while in or since leaving care.
With more than 15 categories, the council wants to celebrate the achievements of as many young people as possible and will consider each and every nomination submitted. The STAR awards support Croydon’s Choose Your Future campaign, which is about encouraging young people to make positive choices in life, and celebrating their successes and achievements.
Croydon care-leaver Ashleigh Searle said: “I believe the looked-after children awards coming back is brilliant as they provide young people with a sense of achievement and something to aspire towards. There are definitely lots of achievements to recognise.
“It is also a good way to bring young people together so they can share experiences, make friends that are in a similar situation to their own and expand their social network. I am very excited for the awards to be taking place.”.
The categories include:
• Star learner of the year (primary)
• Star learner of the year (secondary)
• Star learner of the year (post-16)
• Award for star achievement in higher education, training or employment
• Literacy stars
• Numeracy stars
• Language stars
• Dedication to learning award
• Personal journey award
• Star sibling award
• Star award for inspiring others
• Community star
• Sports star award
• Star talents award (music & performing arts)
• Star volunteer award
“Cllr Alisa Flemming, cabinet member for children, young people and learning, said: “Croydon looks after more young people than any other borough in London and each and every day these young people are demonstrating their strength and resilience by doing amazing things. Be it academic success, sporting talent, or overcoming a hurdle in their personal lives, they are all stars and these awards reflect that. If you know someone who deserves to have their achievements recognised please let us know.”
Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet member for children, young people and learning
To nominate please visit www.croydon.gov.uk/education/starawards and complete the nomination form. If you have any questions please email Porsha.Robinson@croydon.gov.uk.
