Thursday 1st November 2012



Scott Smith, 16, from Chesterfield, who has turned his life around with help from youth charity The Prince's Trust, has been nominated for a prestigious royal award.



Scott (above left with his dad) is up for the Experian Educational Achiever Award at The Prince's Trust Celebrate Success Awards to be held next month.

The award recognises young people who have overcome barriers and developed new skills to improve their future prospects through re-engagement with education.

Scott's home life became unstable after his mother suffered a minor stroke and he began spending time at his father's. In school, his attendance was extremely poor and he was regularly in trouble for getting into fights with other pupils.

In addition to showing aggressive and threatening behaviour towards staff, Scott had also received warnings from the police concerning anti-social conduct involving vehicle damage.

He was reluctant to be in education or any activity that might help improve his future prospects, and he was seen as one of the most disruptive pupils in school.

However, once enrolled on The Prince's Trust xl programme - a scheme helping young people at risk of exclusion from school - Scott exhibited a genuine desire to improve his behaviour. He contributed positively during sessions and encouraged others to participate in activities, which saw him gain a Prince's Trust qualification for his efforts.

Scott's attitude had clearly changed. In his determination to achieve his target grades in maths, English and science, he undertook extra revision sessions after school and at home. He eventually went on to attain a Level Two in his ALAN tests in Literacy and Numeracy.

His leadership abilities often came to the fore, particularly in one outdoor activity where he acquired an outstanding achievements award for his contribution and support of other students.

Showing increased maturity, the young man from Chesterfield now takes responsibility for his behaviour and is aware of the impact his conduct can have on those around him.

During his time on the programme, Scott developed a wide range of new skills that will provide him with significant advantages in the future. He holds aspirations to join the police force but, in the meantime, works full-time at two separate companies and is applying for an apprenticeship.

Sixteen-year-old Scott is an inspirational role model to his peers, and advises them to accept the help and support offered to them.

Scott said: "I am proud of my achievements, and proud to be seen as an example to other students in a similar position." 

Jan Barratt, Head of Community, Experian UK&I, said: "We are proud to support the Experian Educational Achiever Award which celebrates young people who have overcome barriers, developed new skills and improved their education prospects. We would like to congratulate Scott on being nominated for this award and wish him the best of luck."

The Prince's Trust Celebrate Success Awards honour the achievements of disadvantaged young people supported by The Trust who have succeeded against the odds, improved their chances in life and had a positive impact on their local community. The awards ceremony will take place at The Roundhouse, Derby on Wednesday 7th November 2012.

Youth charity, The Prince's Trust gives disadvantaged young people the skills and confidence to find a job.  Three in four young people helped by The Prince's Trust move into work training or education.

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