It was wonderful to see members of our Trust recognised at the recent Relationships That Matter Recognition Awards at the Guildhall in Hull. Hosted by the Thrive Hull Partnership and facilitated by Hull City Council, the event celebrated the transformational impact that positive relationships can have on the lives of children and young people.

The afternoon was filled with inspiring stories and powerful reminders of the difference that can be made when the right adult is there for a young person at the right time. It was particularly moving to hear speeches from Matt Jukes, Chief Executive of Hull City Council and Alison Wilson, Regional Director, who both spoke passionately about the importance of nurturing relationships in supporting children and families across the city.

We were also incredibly proud that Maybury Primary School was invited to perform at the event. Their fantastic choir delivered a wonderful performance that showcased both the talent and confidence of our pupils.

The event concluded with an inspiring speech from our CEO, Rachel Wilkes, Co-Chair of the Hull Learning Partnership on behalf of all education leaders in the city who spoke about what it means to serve all of Hull's children and the collective responsibility we share in helping every child thrive.

A special congratulations goes to our outstanding nominees:

• Jacqueline Baines, Frederick Holmes School
• Denise Foley, Achievement Support Assistant, St Nicholas Primary School
• Amy Harvie, Teacher, Adelaide Primary School
• Debbie Harrison, Teacher, Adelaide Primary School
• Michelle Horsfield, Child Protection Officer, Adelaide Primary School
• Rebecca Mensforth, Achievement Support Assistant, Kingswood Parks Primary School
• Jonny Rogers, Head of School, Parkstone Primary School
• Katie Stow, Assistant Headteacher, Parkstone Primary School
• Jim Weller, Assistant Headteacher, Frederick Holmes School
• Catherine Whitelam, Assistant Headteacher, Adelaide Primary School

The nominations highlighted the incredible impact each of these colleagues has on the children they support. Some of the comments included:

"What stands out most is the strong, trusting relationship Rebecca has built with the child."

"Through her nurturing approach, predictable routines and strong relational practice, Katie provides a secure and trusting safe base."

"Jonny demonstrates a strong trauma-informed approach and leads an excellent staff team who also have a clear understanding of attachment and trauma."

Rebecca Mensforth shared her delight in receiving the award: “This nomination means so much to me. Knowing that a child feels safe, supported, and valued because of the relationship we’ve built is a privilege and seeing them grow in confidence is the greatest reward I could ask for.” 

Being recognised in this way is a wonderful achievement and one that deserves to be celebrated. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and admiration to all those nominated.

We would also like to thank everyone who took the time to submit nominations, our school staff who attended the event, the Thrive Hull Partnership for hosting such a meaningful occasion and the talented young musicians whose performances made the afternoon even more special.

What a fantastic afternoon celebrating the power of relationships and the extraordinary people who make a difference every day.

Photo credits: CASK Creative