The Brunts Academy in Mansfield, lead school of The Evolve Trust, has been awarded Champion School status by National Citizen Service (NCS) for its commitment to the youth programme.

The academy was selected from thousands of schools across the country by the UK’s flagship youth programme for 16 and 17-year-olds, and is one of only 20 in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire to receive the award.

The academy has excelled at motivating students to take up extracurricular activities, encouraging young people to attend the programme during holidays, leading to an increased interest in volunteering.

Teenagers meet young people from other schools and stay in university-style accommodation while they learn more about their community and how they can make a difference through social action projects. They then spend 30 hours carrying out their own project in the community.

To earn Champion School status, a teacher must take on the role of Champion Teacher, spearheading the programme within the school.

Mr Luke Dickinson, year 11 progress leader, who was key to earning the academy’s new status, said: “It’s a great achievement. Our commitment to the programme reflects the amazing feedback we receive from our students and the noticeable difference we see in their attitudes when they return from the programme.

“The NCS programme is an initiative we are publicising continually with older students.

“NCS attended our year 11 parents’ evening to also raise awareness of the programme with parents and carers.”

Pictured is Mr Carl Atkin, head of school at Brunts, with Mr Luke Dickinson, second right, and Liam and Thomas, of NCS.