Hundreds of care experienced children and young people have been recognised for their achievements at the annual Celebration of Achievement awards.
Held at Exeter Racecourse on Friday 3 July, the event was organised by our Virtual School and celebrated the progress, resilience and successes of our young people over the past 12 months.
Approximately 200 young people attended alongside 260 family members, carers and supporters. In total, 551 young people were nominated for recognition, with those unable to attend receiving their awards by post. The evening was a great success and rounded off Love Our Children Week 2026, our week-long celebration of our children in care and care leavers across Devon.
The awards were compered by Julian Watkins, Assistant Director and Lead for Corporate Parenting, with Councillor Richard Jefferies presenting certificates and gift vouchers. Councillor Denise Bickley and Councillor Julian Brazil introduced the younger and older age group award presentations.
Julian Watkins, Assistant Director and Lead for Corporate Parenting, said:
“The Celebration Awards is one of the highlights of the year, giving us the opportunity to come together and recognise the hard work, determination and progress of our children in care and care leavers.
“As corporate parents, we want every young person to know that they are valued, supported and encouraged to aim high. That’s what Love Our Children week is all about, and these awards are the culmination of that – we are not only celebrating achievements, but also the journeys, talents and personal successes that make each young person unique.
“I would like to congratulate all of this year’s nominees and winners, and thank our foster carers, staff and partners whose ongoing support helps our young people thrive. It was a fantastic evening and a wonderful celebration of their success.”
Guests also enjoyed a range of activities including inflatables, face painting, DJ workshops on the BoomBus, and live music from Burnt Daylight, finalists from the Devon Battle of the Bands who have been supported by Devon Music Education hub. Guests also enjoyed a buffet and chocolate fountain, as well as free ice cream kindly donated by Darts Farm.
One young person who attended the event said:
“It was really nice to be part of the Celebration Awards and see so many young people being recognised for what they have achieved.”
The event brought Love Our Children Week 2026 to a close. The week featured activities across Devon celebrating children in care and care leavers, including inspirational talks, creative workshops and events recognising the important role of carers.
Councillor Richard Jefferies, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services – Social Services, said:
“I thoroughly enjoyed attending this year’s Celebration Awards and hearing about the many achievements of our children in care and care leavers. Their resilience, ambition and determination are truly inspiring, and the evening was a powerful reminder of everything they can achieve.
“The awards provide an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate success, while also thanking our foster carers and dedicated staff who support young people every step of the way.
“Congratulations to everyone who was nominated, received an award, or helped make the event such a memorable occasion.”
