Delighted to see The Acorns School students celebrating success in their future ventures. Please read below for details.

Every candidate nominated for Public Services Learner of the Year has been fantastic, but I truly believe this learner has made the most remarkable progress since the beginning of the year. It’s no secret that his educational journey before college wasn’t the easiest. He joined us through the Engage Programme, and from the start, he showed outstanding reliability and a clear determination to turn over a new leaf and give education a genuine fresh start. Recognising his potential and positive attitude, we gave him the opportunity to progress early onto the Level 1 Public Services and Sport course — an opportunity he seized with both hands. His attendance has been exemplary, and he has made significant personal sacrifices to ensure he attends college consistently. On top of his studies, he has gone above and beyond, coming into college on his day off to support learners on the Aspire Programme and to take part in additional gym sessions to support his wellbeing. His work has been completed to distinction standard, allowing him to progress onto Level 2 Sport next year. He has set his sights on becoming a PE teacher — a fantastic and ambitious goal that reflects just how far he has come. He has taken the lead in gym sessions, supporting peers who benefit from extra encouragement, and he’s passed his Level 1 Functional Skills in both English and Maths — an incredible achievement — with plans to study GCSEs next year. His mindset has shifted entirely. Where once he doubted himself, he now says with confidence, "I can do this, and I will achieve this." It’s been inspiring to witness his growth — physically, mentally, and academically. He is fitter, more positive, and developing both resilience and belief in himself. From a learner who once struggled to step into the classroom, to someone who has achieved so much in such a short space of time — we couldn’t be prouder. Well done, Charlie Johnson.