One of our Sixth Form pupils; Ryan Hardman, has won the prestigious Powys Volunteer of the Year Award 2023 for the category Exceptional Young Person. Ryan received his award from Tom Jones O.B.E; High Sheriff of Powys.

Ryan volunteers every Friday at Footprints on the Farm, as well as weekly at the Game Change Project as a volunteer mentor to children and young people who need additional support in accessing school, clubs and their communities.

Ryan first went to Footprints on the Farm as a guest in November 2020, and now he has become one of the regular peer support mentors, and has a great connection with every guest where he is considered to be everyone’s friend. Guests feel safe, secure and connected in Ryan’s company. Ryan brings every young person under his wing, encourages them, builds their confidence and self-esteem. He never judges, he is inclusive and he is always to have a go and learn more. Ryan helps guests so that they feel more able to connect outside their schools and for some going to school is a real challenge. Ryan offers his support to all, he listens and he cares. He is looked up to and as a local youth and gives guests confidence in trying new things.

His nominator said “We cannot imagine Footprints without Ryan – he is Footprints and he stands for everything that we set to offer and achieve – time and space to explore, learn and grow. We truly feel that Ryan’s volunteering, energy and passion for helping others should be recognised in our and his local community – he is inspiring”.

After winning the award, Ryan has been invited to attend the King’s Coronation this year in London and a party at the palace, which he is both very excited and humbled about.

Congratulations Ryan from us all at Ysgol Brynllywarch, what a truly amazing achievement.