Liam Byrne MP presented prizes to students who had taken part in an innovative educational programme to develop character at a ceremony last week.

The programme was run by Learning for Life, a charitable organisation who started the Values Award programme in 2005. The project enables students to reflect on human qualities such as enthusiasm, courage, honesty, generosity, trust, and perseverance.

The students designed posters by reflecting on their personal influences, values and morals.

5 secondary schools from Hodge Hill took part and the MP awarded prizes to 12 students who had completed exceptional posters.

The project was piloted in Hodge Hill due to a request by Liam.

Liam said:

“Few young people in Hodge Hill go on to further education – I want our young people to know they can do anything they set their minds to, it takes work, strength and determination to achieve goals and dreams. Now young people in Hodge Hill have a chance to develop their character and learn to succeed.”

With increasing media attention about youth crime and gangs, the Learning for Life poster award is an opportunity to get a real sense about what young people really think about these issues.  The posters show what is important to young people today as well as the hopes they have for their futures.  The posters give a fascinating insight into the thinking of young people today.

Learning for Life conducted this pilot competition and is now actively recruiting schools to take part in the programme next year. Please see www.learningforlife.org.uk or contact Professor James Arthur on 0121 628 3648 for more information.

 

A selection of quotations written by students from Hodge Hill on their posters.

‘I admire people who think that there are ideals worth standing up for, things that are unbelievable, things that show great understanding and the true blessing of love'

‘Honesty will earn respect. People will always trust, respect and value you because there is no hidden agenda, just you, plain and simple'

Selina Ali, Year 9, Saltley School

 

‘Without a dream you are lost in a big, wide world with no positive future ahead of you. This is what I believe'

Nafeesa Hamid, Year 9, Park View School

 

‘Friends come and go but only true friends leave footprints in your heart'

Halima Bibi, Year 9, Park View School

 

‘I would like to have a positive impact on other people's lives, those who are less fortunate than me'

Aneesa Rehman, Year 9, Hodge Hill Girls School

 

‘I have learnt a lot from this project such as what is needed for personal development, successful living and turning things around'

Asma Inayat, Year 9, International School and Community College