Students Celebrated at National Awards Ceremony 2026

Students from the William Henry Smith Foundation were proudly recognised at the Engage in Their Future National Awards Ceremony 2026, held on World Book Day last week. 

The national event, held at the Contact Theatre in Manchester, brought together schools from across the country to celebrate courage, resilience, creativity and achievement - and we are delighted that several of our students were among this year’s nominees and winners. 

The ceremony, hosted by trustees Will Washington and Sue Ackroyd, honoured young people whose journeys reflect extraordinary determination and personal growth. The atmosphere was one of pride, celebration and hope - values that sit at the heart of the William Henry Smith Foundation community. 

William Henry Smith Foundation staff nominated the following students, who were shortlisted and invited to attend:

Oliver Heeley
Gold
Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds Award

This award celebrates the powerful link between physical wellbeing and mental resilience, and Oliver truly embodies both. 

Through dedicated personal training, involvement in multiple sports and a determination to overcome personal barriers - including learning to swim - Oliver has demonstrated outstanding perseverance and commitment. Beyond his own achievements, he actively mentors and encourages others, participates in fundraising and challenge events, and models the importance of self-care and community wellbeing. 

Oliver’s journey reflects not only personal strength, but the positive impact one individual can have on those around them. We are incredibly proud of him.  Oliver also received a one year gym membership sponsored by Total Fitness. 

Matthew McNulty
Silver
Bright Futures Award

Matthew’s journey is one of courage and ambition. After overcoming significant challenges, he now fully embraces school life — working on the school farm, attending residential experiences and even travelling abroad. 

Beyond school, Matthew has stepped confidently into leadership roles. He serves as a scout leader, has achieved his Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, secured a place in the police cadets from over 600 applicants, and completed work experience with the transport police with impressive maturity. 

His resilience, confidence and commitment to a future in public service make him a truly deserving recipient. Matthew represents the very best of future-ready determination. 

William Coney
Gold
Biggest Journey Award (Further Education)

William was awarded Gold in the Biggest Journey – Further Education category, recognising extraordinary resilience and transformation. 

William’s journey has been one of remarkable courage. From finding it incredibly difficult to engage with education or the world beyond home, he has steadily rebuilt his confidence with determination and the right support. 

Today, William has formed meaningful friendships, contributes through community volunteering, engages successfully in mainstream learning and has completed professional healthcare training aligned with his future ambitions. 

His focus, commitment and growth are nothing short of inspirational. William’s story is a powerful reminder of what is possible when perseverance meets belief and opportunity. 

A Proud Moment for Our Community

To have three students recognised at a national awards ceremony is an incredible achievement - but more importantly, it reflects the individual journeys each young person has taken. 

These awards celebrate far more than outcomes; they celebrate growth, resilience, courage and hope. 

We would like to thank our dedicated staff and supportive families, whose belief and encouragement help our students take those vital “next steps” every day. 

To Oliver, Matthew and William - we are immensely proud of you. Your achievements inspire not only our school community but everyone privileged enough to hear your stories. 

Know a young person who deserves to be recognised?

Nominations for next year’s awards open in October on the Engage in their Future website. Start thinking about the young people whose resilience, courage, ambition and achievements deserve to be celebrated.