More than 60 inspirational school pupils have had their hard work recognised at a special event this week.
The guests, supported by family, carers and school teachers were invited to Croydon Conference Centre for a special evening to mark their success.
The Year 6 pupils, who are about to make the move from primary to secondary school, were nominated for awards for a wide range of reasons.
The event was organised by the council’s youth engagement team as part of the Choose Your Future campaign, empowering young people to make positive life choices. The awards celebrate the valuable contributions some of the youngest members of Croydon’s communities make ahead of this important transition.
Among the outstanding young people was Emily Toop, an 11-year-old at Broadmead Primary School who has completed St John’s Ambulance training and helps to look after her younger sisters.
“I wanted to do the training because of my cousin,” she said. “She really inspires me. I was proud to get the award and I want to be a paramedic when I grow up.”
Zaynab Quraishi, an 11-year-old, organised a charity event to help vulnerable people in Lebanon. Her fellow pupils at Al-Khair Primary wore white and helped raise £3,000 for the cause.
She said: “I wanted to help less fortunate people. I thought the White Day would be good because it’s something everyone can join in with.”
Jamie Bamford, 11, was nominated for keeping a positive attitude after needing a major operation and spending months in plaster, even managing to lead the conga line at the school dance.
Fairchildes Academy Community Trust School was presented with the School Shield for their commitment to helping their pupils become good citizens throughout the year.
In total 67 children were given Good Citizenship Awards on Tuesday, 30 April.
“Young people are our future and we will do everything we can to support them as they work to achieve their potential.
“It was an honour to meet these excellent young citizens and hear about their inspirational work.”
Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet member for children, young people and learning
