The achievements of the city’s care experienced young people have been celebrated by Aberdeen City Council.
The fifth annual ceremony of its kind held by the Council took place in the Town House and marked the achievements of young people from Aberdeen in the senior phase of education in our city schools as well as those educated in another local authority, and each received a certificate to recognise their success. It also celebrated those who have moved on from school and continued on their journey into a variety of positive destinations.
The young people were congratulated by the people who have worked with them, parents and carers and Champions; all saying how proud they were of their achievements.
Two of the guest speakers at the event were care experienced young people who shared with the audience their journey to help inspire and encourage others in the room and those watching online, to believe in themselves and their capabilities.
The ceremony, which was hosted by Virtual School Head Teacher, Larissa Gordon and opened with a speech from the Lord Provost of Aberdeen, Dr David Cameron, also saw an address given by Aberdeen City Council’s Education Operational Delivery Vice-convener, Councillor Jessica Mennie.
The Lord Provost said: “It was an honour to take part in the ceremony to meet our care experienced young people and celebrate their achievements. The praise they have received today is well-deserved.
“My thanks also go out to their teachers, parents and carers and our Integrated Children’s Team who have done such a fantastic job in supporting our children and young people who come into our care to make the most of their capabilities.”
Councillor Mennie said: “It was wonderful to be here to join colleagues and families in celebrating the attainments of our care experienced young people and hear at first hand their moving and inspiring stories.
“I look forward to becoming a member of our Champions Board for our care experienced young people and playing my part in helping support them towards positive outcomes.”
The young attendees, families and carers were equally enthusiastic about the event with one young person saying: “It was really nice to hear all those nice things said about me” while the grandmother of another said: “It was so emotional hearing about everything she has done and being recognised for it. I am so proud.”
A guidance teacher who attended with two care experienced young people, also commented positively about the event, saying: “What a pleasure it was to be part of an event that celebrated our Looked After Children’s achievements.
“Their successes are not always easily gained as they often come across more hurdles than some of the peers, which is why it is so important to reward their achievements.