Events were held in Annandale and Eskdale (Lockerbie Academy – 2 Feb), Nithsdale (The Bridge – 3 Feb), Upper Nithsdale (Sanquhar Academy – 11 Feb), Stewartry (Castle Douglas High School – 10 Feb), Stranraer (Stranraer Academy – 16 Feb) and Mid Galloway (Douglas Ewart High School – 17 Feb).
Across the region, hundreds of young people came together with friends, families, school staff, councillors and invited guests to celebrate their achievements over the past year.
Each event featured local young hosts and performances from talented young musicians and dancers, creating a warm and supportive environment for the presentations.
Young people received accredited certificates recognising their participation in a wide range of groups and programmes, including transitions groups, wider achievement groups from secondary schools, Amazing Summer camps, Youth Council activities, after school groups, the Young Women’s Network, additional support needs and disability groups, volunteering programmes, and leadership roles within their communities.
Accredited awards presented across the region included Dynamic Youth Awards, Hi5 Awards, Saltire Awards for Volunteering, Heritage Hero Awards, John Muir Awards and Participative Democracy Certificates. These celebrations showcased the breadth of youth work activity taking place locally and the commitment of young people to developing their skills, confidence and leadership.
Speaking on the events, Councillor Tracey Little, Chair of Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee said:
“The hard work and dedication shown by all the young people who received these awards is remarkable and they should be incredibly proud of their achievements. Youth Work takes place in communities throughout Dumfries and Galloway and we should take pride in that. These celebration events highlight the significance and value of Youth Work in Dumfries and Galloway and gives us the chance to congratulate the young people on their achievements.”
Councillor George Jamieson, Vice Chair added:
“It was a privilege to see so many young people recognised for gaining these accredited awards. Achieving the awards requires commitment and enthusiasm and this is evident from each of the young people who received certificates. The wide range of groups and programmes available young people across our Region ensures they have the opportunity achieve their full potential.”