ACTIVATE Learning, which oversees Reading College and other educational institutions around Berkshire and Oxfordshire, has been given a prestigious award.
It has been commended with the Young Carers in Schools (YCiS) Award, which recognises its commitment to supporting students who care for others across all eight of its campuses.
The YCIS programme is a free initiative which works with schools in England to share good practise resources as well as provide relevant tools and training, run jointly by the Children’s Society and the Carers Trust.
Young adult carers (those between 18-25), and young carers (under 18s), provide care for another person who is ill, disabled, or experiencing mental health or addiction issues, alongside their studies.
This can include caring for a sibling, parent, or other relatives, in practical or emotional capacities, which has a significant impact on their own health, well-being, educational attainment, and social development.
The Young Carers in School Award commends those who have attained the five standards of support for relevant students.
This includes the provision of assigned staff members to address young carers’ needs, as well as the sharing of awareness around disability, illness, and carers throughout the school.
It also commends the identification and consultation of young carers within a school, as well as the signposting of vital resources and other support within an educational setting.
Millie Ellis, Group Designated Safeguarding Lead at Activate Learning, said: “We recognise the important role young carers and young adult carers play within their families and appreciate the additional responsibilities this often places on them.
“Their dedication and resilience, juggling their studies alongside caring for their loved ones, is commendable.
“I am immensely proud that our efforts have been recognised through achieving this award, highlighting our commitment to identifying, understanding and supporting our young carers. I would like to thank our dedicated teams for their efforts in helping our young carer students achieve their full potential.”
A spokesperson for the Children’s Society and Carers’ Trust said: “Many congratulations to Activate Learning. It is fantastic to see colleges making such great progress in supporting young carers through the Young Carers in Schools programme.
“This programme has shone a much-needed light on the often hidden and difficult challenges faced by students who care for family members. The right support from college for these children can have a hugely positive impact on their education and wellbeing.
“Activate Learning secured their Bronze Award with a whole-college approach for students, from homework clubs to training staff to identify young carers, really underscoring the importance of a comprehensive strategy so that caring duties do not compromise a student’s education.”
