Children in care, their foster carers, friends and extended family attended a special event held by Awena Virtual School on Sunday (July 21).
Overlooking the biomes at the Eden Project, more than 160 guests enjoyed a day which celebrated the achievements of children in care in Cornwall.
Part of Cornwall Council’s Together for Families directorate, Awena supports the education of children in care and those who have, or have had, a social worker.
The virtual school tracks their progress at their ‘real’ school providing additional support if needed.
At Sunday’s annual celebration, every child and young person was presented with a personalised certificate that highlighted their interests, talents and academic and other achievements.
The event was supported by HeadStart Kernow, Carefree Cornwall and Arts Lab, delivered by Creative Kernow, Arts Well and HeadStart Kernow.
Emma Phillips, Head of Awena, Cornwall Virtual School for children in care, said:
“Eden was bursting with fun on Sunday and children and young people were able to enjoy creative activities led by artists from the Arts Lab who provided opportunities to try parkour, dance, drama, block printing and making hand-made books. The sparkly temporary tattoos, an activity led by Awena, also proved popular!
“Awena supports children in care academically but also recognises the importance of children celebrating who they are as people, for example the kindness they show to others, their sense of humour and ambitions for the future. Sharing activities and lunch together helped to create special memories for everyone who was there.”
Laura Barnes, a foster carer who attended the event, added:
“With their lived experience of being children in care, people undervalue how much harder these children have to work to achieve the same as their peers. This was a treat of a day and we all had a fab time!”
Children and young people also enjoyed their time at Eden with one describing it as an “absolutely brilliant event” and another saying “great food and great setting!”
Cllr Barbara Ellenbroek, cabinet member for children and families at Cornwall Council, said:
“There should be no barriers for any child when it comes to fulfilling their potential and Awena Virtual School plays a crucial role in helping them do this.
“Thank you to everyone who made Sunday’s event such a huge success and congratulations to all of the children and young people on their fantastic achievements.”
For more information on Awena Virtual School visit the Awena - Cornwall Virtual School webpages on the council's website.
Press release issued on July 25, 2024.