'Inspirational' youngsters hailed for 'incredible' strengths and talents at inaugural awards.

The first-ever Lancashire Education and Learning Awards took place on Wednesday 8 July at County Hall in Preston, celebrating the 'incredible' resilience, hard work and talents of young people across the county.

The glamorous event, hosted by BBC sports presenter Giulia Bould, recognised pupils nominated by school staff for their excellence, resilience and contribution to their communities. Featuring lively music played by Preston & Pendle Music Centre’s 'Beat Lab' students, the awards ceremony in the Savoy Suite was attended by Lord-Lieutenant Amanda Parker JP, Chairman of Lancashire County Council Councillor Lee Hutchinson and County Councillor Matthew Salter, cabinet member for Education and Skills.

Pupils' dedication, strength and resilience in overcoming significant challenges were recognised, along with linguistic, sporting, musical and creative talents, with winners in eight categories, including Young Hero of Lancashire, Sporting Prowess, Lancashire Values and Outstanding Progress, with additional honours presented through the Cabinet Member Award and Director of Education Award.

Among the winners was six-year-old Bella Greenwood, who received the Lancashire Outstanding Progress Award in recognition of her resilience, determination and exceptional personal growth.

Bella Greenwood, a pupil at Rishton Methodist Primary School, who received the Lancashire Outstanding Progress Award at the Lancashire Education and Learning Awards .

A pupil at Rishton Methodist Primary School, Bella has faced significant challenges following a diagnosis of a brain tumour, which led to developmental differences and a period of profound difficulty.

However, her teachers say despite these obstacles, Bella has shown remarkable perseverance, making steady and meaningful progress in her learning, communication, confidence and independence, while her story is testament to her strength of character as well as the unwavering support of her family  and the dedication of the staff who work alongside her each day.

Deputy headteacher Mr Sean Steele said:

"Bella is an inspiration to everyone around her. She has faced significant challenges with courage, determination and a positive attitude, and the progress she has made is truly remarkable. This award recognises not only her achievements, but also her resilience and strength of character. We are incredibly proud of Bella and delighted to see her receive this well-deserved recognition."

Meanwhile, six-year-old Primrose Snape of St Catherine's Catholic Primary School, Leyland, who has complex conditions including profound visual impairment and neurological conditions, won the Red Rose - Lancashire's Champion Award.

Primrose Snape, a pupil at St Catherine's Catholic Primary School, Leyland, who won the Red Rose - Lancashire's Champion Award at the Lancashire Education and Learning Awards.

Headteacher Simon Lawman said:

"Primrose is an extraordinary little girl whose courage shines through every moment of her life, making her a truly deserving nominee for the Young Heroes of Lancashire Award. Despite significant and complex conditions, she approaches the world with a determination and joy that inspire everyone around her. She faces obstacles in every aspect of her day - navigating spaces she cannot see, learning concepts that take immense effort to retain, coping with overwhelming sensory input, and understanding emotions she cannot yet interpret - yet she continues to grow, learn and smile with a resilience that humbles us all.

"Every day, Primrose shows what courage in the face of adversity truly looks like. She transforms those around her with her gentle presence, her strength and her extraordinary spirit. It is our privilege to have her at our school. We are truly blessed. Primrose does not just inspire us - she makes us better. She is, without question, a shining example of heroism."

Similarly, 15-year-old Thomas Wilson, of St Augustine's Catholic High School in Billington, received the Red Rose – Lancashire's Champion award for his 'exceptional commitment' to fundraising to help the homeless.

Thomas Wilson, of St Augustine's Catholic High School in Billington, received the Red Rose – Lancashire's Champion award at the Lancashire Education and Learning Awards.

This saw him taking part in annual challenges for the last seven years, including covering 150km, combining 50km of running and 100km of cycling, within a single month and raising £5,400 across six previous challenges.

PE teacher Joshua Robson at St Augustine's, said:

"Thomas's motivation stems from a deeply personal experience. In 2020, Thomas regularly spoke with a man experiencing homelessness outside his local supermarket. Hearing how this individual became homeless following a family bereavement had a profound impact on him, inspiring a sustained commitment to raising awareness and supporting those in similar situations. This connection continues to drive his efforts and compassion.

"Thomas is highly aware of the growing scale of homelessness in the UK, with over 380,000 people affected, including more than 160,000 children. Recognising the increasing need for support, he has remained dedicated to contributing both financially and through raising awareness.

"Thomas’s continued commitment year after year highlights his resilience, empathy, and determination to make a positive difference. His efforts go beyond fundraising; they reflect a genuine desire to support vulnerable individuals and contribute to lasting social change."

County Councillor Matthew Salter, cabinet member for Education and Skills at Lancashire County Council, said:

“Lancashire's Education and Learning Awards have been an uplifting opportunity to celebrate remarkable young people from across Lancashire. I was inspired by the resilience and determination of our award winners and delighted to see how their schools and families are supporting them to accomplish phenomenal achievements.

“These awards recognise the character, and commitment of the next generation of Lancastrians and show how much young people can achieve when we believe in them.

“Thank you to everyone playing their part to help our young people reach their potential and succeed in everything they do.”