Celebrating Our Year 8 Young Leaders

The Archbishop of York Young Leaders Award – Celebration Assembly

We were delighted to host a special celebration assembly this week to recognise the incredible achievements of our Year 8 pupils who completed the Archbishop of York Young Leaders Award (AYLA).

The Young Leaders Award is a unique opportunity that helps students grow in character, confidence, and community awareness, encouraging them to put their faith and values into action. Over the past term, our Year 8 pupils have explored themes such as servant leadership, teamwork, perseverance, and compassion, and have responded with creativity, kindness, and commitment.

Throughout the award, pupils took part in a range of leadership challenges both in school and in the wider community. From supporting younger pupils and leading tutor group initiatives to organising acts of kindness and raising awareness of important causes, our Year 8s have truly let their light shine.

During the assembly, we celebrated:

• Pupils’ personal reflections on leadership and resilience
• Highlights from their community action projects
• Speeches from two pupils sharing their journeys through the award
• Certificates and special commendations presented to our 4 charity representatives

The assembly was a joyful and affirming moment, not only recognising individual efforts but also celebrating the collective impact of a group of young people determined to make a difference.

We are so proud of the way our pupils embraced this challenge and lived out our school values with integrity and purpose. A huge well done to all involved!

“Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about serving others with courage and kindness.” – A key lesson from this year’s award journey.