Posted on 4th Aug
Thomas Powers, a year 13 student at Newark Academy – which is part of Nova Education Trust – has been awarded a Child of Courage award.
The award – run by Newark Rotary Club – is given to students who have shown exemplified courage in the face of personal adversity and difficulty.
Having additional learning needs and having to deal with losing his mum at an early age can make Thomas’ understanding of the world around him challenging.
Overcoming considerable difficulties hasn’t stopped him from thriving at Newark Academy Sixth Form, however. He has shown great determination in his personal and academic life and received offers from five universities.
Sally Goodman, the school’s Lead Behaviour and Support Co-ordinator, nominated Thomas for the award and said: “As a school, we are extremely proud of Thomas.
“Due to his additional needs, he often found adapting to life in a large secondary school a challenge. However, with support from dad and Thomas’ determination and resilience, he made it through to the end of year 13 and A levels.
“He has been offered and has accepted a place at Glasgow University where he hopes to study geography. Good luck Thomas for the future.”
Due to Covid restrictions, a virtual presentation was held recently, which Thomas attended. He received an engraved trophy and certificate.
The Newark Rotary Club’s Children of Courage Awards were introduced seven years ago.
Its aim is to recognise local children, aged three to 19, showing any of the following: courageous act, selfless acts of kindness, children facing traumatic experiences, or even having to face extreme health problems and difficulties, and children who have to overcome their own fears or issues and turn themselves around.
