Pershore Civic Society and Avonreach Academy Citizenship Awards 2025
In October 2025, Dr Judy Dale, President of the Pershore Civic Society, and Michael Hodges, the Society’s Chairman, visited three schools associated with the Avonreach Academy Trust to present the annual Pershore Civic Society and Avonreach Academy Citizenship Prizes. Their tour took them to Orchard Primary & Pre-School, Flyford Flavell Primary School, and Pershore High School, where they met pupils who had demonstrated exceptional commitment to their communities. At each stop, they were inspired by the students’ kindness, initiative, and willingness to give freely of their time to help others.
The first visit was to Orchard Primary Academy, where three pupils—Teddie, Jessica, and Megan—were recognised for their remarkable acts of citizenship. Teddie (also one of last year’s prize winners) was honoured for raising over £1,000 for the Air Ambulance, an extraordinary achievement for someone so young and a testament to his determination to make a difference. Jessica and Megan were celebrated for their involvement with the Pershore Round Table’s Santa Sleigh during the previous Christmas season. Their support helped bring festive cheer to families around the town while also contributing to the Round Table’s charitable efforts. Dr Dale and Mr Hodges praised the Orchard pupils for embodying the spirit of generosity and community engagement that the award seeks to promote.
Their next destination was Flyford Flavell Primary School, where pupils were recognised for a wide range of charitable and community-minded activities. Ishi and Parth, Polly and Isabelle, Jensen and Kai, and Willow and Clara were all involved in fundraising work that benefitted organisations such as the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Foundation and Coeliac UK. In addition to their charity efforts, some pupils also volunteered their time to support the village fête, helping to ensure the event ran smoothly and successfully. The Civic Society representatives were impressed by the maturity and enthusiasm with which these young people had embraced their roles, noting that their actions had a tangible and positive impact on both their school and wider community.
The final visit took place at Pershore High School, where the award recipients demonstrated an inspiring breadth of interests and contributions. Jorja, supported by Pershore Rotary, travelled to Wisconsin in the United States to participate in an international Peace Conference, an experience that broadened her understanding of global citizenship and dialogue. Leon was acknowledged for his continued support of the local Scouts, while Ben was recognised for his dedication as a member of the Army Cadets in Malvern. Lily-Beth received her award for undertaking a fundraising challenge in support of Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Jessica Lane was honoured for her role in a local Democracy Day, during which she emerged as a strong advocate for safer streets for women and girls.
Throughout their visits, Dr Dale and Mr Hodges expressed how encouraged they were by the dedication and compassion shown by all the prize-winners. They spoke warmly of the pupils’ willingness to step forward, contribute, and act as positive forces within their communities. Delighted to celebrate their efforts, they presented certificates and prizes for the most outstanding student, marking not only their achievements but also their potential as future civic leaders.
