Our first-ever Co-op Young Leaders awards was truly remarkable, we had 35 students nominated from 12 different academies across our primary academies, secondary schools, and post-16. Every single nominee has demonstrated what it means to be a true leader and a role model to their peers.

The awards were built around our Co-op Ways of Being, split into four distinct categories. Competition was incredibly fierce, with two outstanding winners selected for each category.

Here are the remarkable winners of the 2026 Student Leaders Recognition Awards:

 1. Do What Matters Most

Awarded to students who focus on the bigger picture, display immense responsibility, and take action to make a real difference.

Winner 1: Ruby, Esme, Jacob and Kingdavid from Co-op Academy Northwood
'Despite their young age, these students have shown incredible commitment to improving our school community. Every morning, they are a vibrant presence at the school gate, meeting and greeting their peers with infectious enthusiasm. Their friendly faces help ease morning nerves and make every child feel welcome from the moment they arrive.'

Winner 2: Eloise from Co-op Academy Priesthorpe
‘As part of her leadership development Eloise has delivered to our Community Council, worked with other young learners across the city as part of a student summit with the Leeds Learning Alliance and even visited 11 Downing Street to speak with the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves. Eloise is the type of student that has exceptional rectitude and you will find her doing what matters most at any occasion.’ 

2. Show You Care Award

Recognising students who demonstrate deep empathy, support their peers, and consistently put others first.

Winner 1: Jenson from Co-op Academy Failsworth 
‘Jenson always ensures he puts others' thoughts and feelings before his own. He is a great role model within the school and students go to him often. He is a valued member of the student leadership team.’ 

Winner 2: Romani from Co-op Academy Portland
'On the first Tuesday of every month a small group of children attend Oxton Grange care home. Romani has been a regular for over two years and has struck up some lovely relationships with the elderly residents.  Romani was particularly fond of a lady who was an author; she had dementia and could no longer remember her career, or her successful 35 book history. Every time we went Romani would patiently show her her own books, she would explain the author was her and she would read to her. 

Before Christmas Romani was told she was on the end of life care and she made her a special Christmas card.

When she died, the lady left Romani a book of hers and her family left a message saying how grateful they were to the children but especially to Romani.’ 

3. Succeed Together

Celebrating leaders who champion teamwork, collaboration, and bringing people together to achieve a goal.

Winner 1: Harriet from Co-op Academy Manchester
‘Harriet was appointed Joint Head Prefect last July due to her positive and determined approach to Student Leadership. She has been a Coop Young leader for three years proving herself to be reliable and trustworthy through her work at a number of after school events.

She can be entrusted to help run the "front of house" at events such at Progress Evenings and Open Evenings. Whether she is leading tours, meeting and greeting families or supporting staff, she has a mature and sensible attitude. Harriet is an excellent role model’ 

Winner 2: Luo Chen from Co-op Academy Stoke-on-Trent 
‘Luo Chen is a fantastic example of what it means to Succeed Together at the Academy. It has been brilliant to watch his confidence and leadership skills grow as he works alongside everyone from his own peers to much younger students. Whether he is helping to train others, supporting the Christmas fair, or lending a hand at parents' evenings, family meals, and community events, Luo Chen always makes sure the team thrives. He is incredibly versatile and willing to work with anyone to get the job done, proving that we achieve our best results when we work as one.’

4. Be Yourself, Always

Honoring students who show authenticity, stand up for what is right, and inspire others by being proudly independent.

Winner 1: Justin from Co-op Academy Leeds
‘Justin exemplifies what it means to be a proactive young leader. The moment an idea is mentioned, he takes initiative, he’ll research it thoroughly, develop a solid plan, and execute it effectively. He consistently seeks involvement in every facet of the student leadership team, driving cultural and extracurricular change. His communication across multiple projects is relentless, and his dedication is instrumental in pushing the team forward.’

Winner 2: Zac from Connell Co-op College 
‘This year, Zac took the initiative to enroll in the 20 volunteering programme, committing to at least 93 hours of service. From the outset, he showed dedication by attending weekly workshops, enrolling onto online CPD and embracing every opportunity to learn and develop. He has since transitioned into an active volunteer role, One City sessions on both Tuesdays and Fridays.
Zac is not only a role model within City in the Community programme but a young leader who embodies the spirit of community, inclusion, and service. His dedication, compassion, and proactive approach make him a truly deserving candidate for recognition.’

A massive thank you to all the staff who nominated our young people for their hard work. And to our 35 nominees and 8 final winners, we are immensely proud of you. 

Keep leading the way!