The Children Looked After Celebration Event 2024 was held on Wednesday, September 18, at Pontypridd Rugby Club, organised by the Virtual School for Children Looked After and supported by children’s services and the Education, Employment and Training Team. The event brought together over 100 young people, carers, and members of staff to recognise and celebrate the remarkable achievements of young people in care. The event was a heartwarming occasion filled with joy, recognition, and inspiration.
During the evening, we were joined by several guests including Cllr. Christina Leyshon, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, Youth Participation, and Climate Change, and Member of the Corporate Parenting Board; Cllr. Rhys Lewis, Cabinet Member for Education, Inclusion, and Welsh Language, and Vice-Chair of the Corporate Parenting Board; Annabel Lloyd, Director of Children’s Services; and Gaynor Davies, Director of Education.
Cllr. Gareth Caple, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, and Chair of the Corporate Parenting Board, said: “This celebration is a fantastic opportunity to recognise the achievements of the inspirational young people who attended and were presented with awards.
“Their strength, resilience, and determination are truly commendable. Every child deserves a champion, and it is a privilege to support and champion their successes.”
A total of 32 young people were nominated for achievement awards across four categories, with each being presented with a certificate and a voucher in recognition of their efforts:
Cllr. Rhys Lewis, Cabinet Member for Education, Inclusion, and Welsh Language, and Vice-Chair of the Corporate Parenting Board, said: “I would firstly like to recognise the carers and our staff for putting on events such as this, encouraging our young people to do their best in life and thrive.
“I always look forward to coming to these events and meeting all the incredible young people. They are often the highlight of the year in our calendars.
“As corporate parents, we have a duty to every child within our care. A duty that I take very seriously, as every child deserves a champion and a voice to advocate for them. I am honoured to have been able to attend the CLA Celebration Event and present the young people with their awards.”
The event also featured a performance by the YEPS band ‘The Unknown,’ and attendees enjoyed pizza and a silent disco, providing a fun and relaxed atmosphere for everyone.
Special thanks were extended to the Virtual School Team who organised the event, the corporate parenting board members, children’s services, and Education, Employment and Training Team for their support. A notable mention was made of Abi-Leigh, a care-experienced young person who played a significant role in setting up and organising the event and was presented with a voucher in recognition of her efforts. Also, a massive thanks to Pontypridd Rugby Club for providing the space and hospitality.
The Children Looked After Celebration Event 2024 was a testament to the dedication and hard work of all involved, highlighting the incredible potential and achievements of young people in care. We are immensely proud of all our children looked after and young people. Their accomplishments, whether big or small, are a true reflection of their effort and perseverance.
