Cooper and Riley attended a special Presentation Evening organised by the charity to recognise the achievements of the young people who took part in the programme. Families of the group were invited to celebrate alongside representatives from the school; Year 9 Leader Miss Head and Student Development Champion, Mrs King.

Throughout the project, the students participated in a variety of workshops designed to build important life skills. These sessions explored topics such as emotional wellbeing, community issues and overcoming personal challenges, helping students develop confidence, resilience and a stronger understanding of the world around them.

As part of the programme, Cooper and Riley were also selected to take part in an exciting residential trip to the Lake District. During the residential, students took part in a range of outdoor and team-building activities including a 24-hour expedition, walking challenges and other land-based adventures. All activities were supervised by qualified instructors, with students encouraged to support one another and work together throughout the experience.

“The workshops were fun and gave us the chance to meet new people and prepare for the challenges we would face on the residential. During our visit to the Lake District, we climbed mountains and hills, played games and made new friends. Some parts were tough, but it helped us build resilience and keep going even when things felt challenging.” Cooper.R

“The Lake District was fun and exciting. From the top of the mountains you could even see as far as Scotland. Climbing together and taking part in the activities helped us work as a team, and we made lots of new friends. It was a really great experience.” Riley.D

Following their positive experience on the programme, both students are now considering volunteering with Essex Boys and Girls Clubs in the future, with the opportunity to take part in another residential trip in Wales as part of the organisation’s continued youth development programmes.

The Lower Academy is incredibly proud of Cooper and Riley for their commitment and enthusiasm throughout the project, and for representing the school so positively.