Will Stewart, who is currently studying Physical Education with Bedfordshire’s School of Teacher Education, was nominated for his community work with Sandy Secondary School and for his efforts coaching football to local children aged between 5 and 15 years.

Since completing his A Levels with the school, Will has been volunteering with their Sports department three days a week for the past three years, utilising the skills he is learning through his university studies. He hopes his positive approach to teamwork and sports will add value to the curriculum and inspire improvement in the pupils’ health and wellbeing.

Speaking about this accolade, Will said: “It was nice to be recognised for what I have done. It caught me unaware that someone would nominate me though, as plenty of other teachers do lots of hard work! After graduating, I hope to find employment in teaching, where I can build a career educating our young people into responsible and caring members of society, instilling a love of PE and of lifelong health.”

The Mayor’s Awards recognise individuals or groups who have made a positive impact on the local area and the surrounding community. Karen Hayward, Principal Head of Sandy Secondary School, commented: “William is an asset to the school and to his local community. I have had the pleasure to see him grow and become the young man he is today.”

Sophy Bassett-Dubsky, Senior Lecturer and Course Co-Ordinator for Physical Education (Secondary) (QTS) at the University of Bedfordshire, also congratulated Will on his win: “We are immensely proud that Will has received the Citizen’s Award. I am delighted that he has been recognised for his volunteering work at Sandy Secondary School, and it’s great to hear how he has consistently dedicated his time to supporting the place where he used to be a pupil.

“Will is one of the characters of his year group and always has a mature and cheerful approach to his studies. I am sure he has used this time to develop his philosophy of what meaningful educational experiences should look like for young people, and I know he will use this knowledge in his own teaching and interaction with groups he’s sure to nurture in other schools and workplaces.”