Shine a light Archives | Child of Wales Awards

The daffodil: a symbol of growth and hope

We are thrilled to unveil our new logo for the Child of Wales Awards 2024. As we look ahead to this year’s event – taking place at Swansea Arena on September 27, 2024 – we felt it was the perfect time to refresh our branding to better reflect the essence of our mission and the spirit of the children we celebrate.

In previous years, our logo featured a star, symbolising the shining achievements and potential of the young individuals we honour. This year, on the back of an in-depth brand review and collaboration with Rebel Lion Advertising, we are excited to introduce a new emblem that captures the heart and soul of Wales and its people: the daffodil. The daffodil is not only the official flower emblem of Wales but also a powerful symbol of growth, resilience, and hope.

Why the daffodil?

The daffodil holds a special place in Welsh culture and identity. It is a flower that blooms in early spring, a time of renewal and new beginnings. For the Child of Wales Awards, the daffodil represents the incredible journeys of the children we celebrate – journeys filled with perseverance, courage, and the promise of a bright future.

The shift from the star to the daffodil in our logo is more than a mere design change. It signifies a deeper connection to the heritage and values of Wales. The daffodil stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of the young nominees we celebrate, whose stories of overcoming adversity, helping the community, and achieving great things inspire us all.

Our new logo is a vibrant, modern depiction of a daffodil, designed to evoke feelings of warmth, hope, and growth. The bright yellow petals representing the optimism and energy of youth. This fresh design is a fitting tribute to the spirit of the awards and the incredible children we honour.

Blanche Sainsbury, our Founder, said:

“The decision to update our logo was driven by our commitment to continuously evolve whilst staying true to our mission. We felt it was time for a refresh that better encapsulates the stories and achievements of our nominees. We embarked on that journey with Rebel Lion Advertising who help us conduct an in-depth review of the brand. We wanted a symbol that not only honours their past accomplishments but also looks forward to their future potential. The daffodil, with its rich symbolism and deep ties to Welsh culture, was the perfect choice.

“As we prepare for the Child of Wales Awards 2024, we are excited to embark on this new chapter with a logo that truly reflects the heart of our event. We hope that the new design will inspire and resonate with our supporters, partners, and, most importantly, the incredible children we celebrate each year.

“Thank you for being part of this journey with us. We look forward to seeing you at the awards ceremony and celebrating the outstanding achievements of Wales’s young heroes.”

James Alloway, Business Development Director at Rebel Lion, said:

“Rebel Lion are profoundly honoured and deeply moved by our role as the Creative Partner for the Child of Wales Awards. Collaborating with Blanche and Mark has been not just a pleasure but a truly inspiring experience, as their unwavering passion and dedication to these awards are nothing short of extraordinary.

With the creation of a new brand identity that beautifully incorporates the daffodil, a symbol resonating deeply with Welsh heritage. Additionally, we are incredibly proud to have the opportunity to produce videos that capture the heartwarming and inspiring journeys of the winners.

We are eagerly anticipating the celebration of these remarkable individuals on September 27th, and we cannot wait to honour their incredible achievements.”

Nominations for the 11 categories of the Child of Wales Awards 2024 will remain open until June 10, 2024. To nominate a deserving young person in any of our categories, click here.

As we prepare to celebrate the outstanding achievements of children and young people across Wales at the upcoming Child of Wales Awards, we are delighted to recognise the invaluable support of Budget Carpets, our Winners Support Package Sponsor. With their commitment to providing quality flooring solutions, Budget Carpets plays a vital role in supporting the winners of the Child of Wales Awards.

About Budget Carpets – Winners Support Package Sponsor

Budget Carpets is a trusted provider of quality flooring products and services, dedicated to enhancing the comfort and aesthetics of homes and businesses across Wales. As the Winners Support Package Sponsor of the Child of Wales Awards, Budget Carpets demonstrates its commitment to supporting initiatives that celebrate the achievements and contributions of children and young people.

Through its partnership with us, here at the Child of Wales Awards, Budget Carpets sponsorship will ensure that the winners – and two guardians – are able to enjoy the awards night to the maximum with the full VIP treatment.

David Roberts, Managing Director, Budget Carpets, said:

“Budget Carpets is thrilled to be the Winners Support Sponsor for the Child of Wales Awards. We are committed to providing support and encouragement to the deserving winners as they embark on their inspiring journeys ahead.”

Blanche Sainsbury, Founder of the Child of Wales Awards, added:

“We are grateful for the support of Budget Carpets as our Winners Support Package Sponsor. With Budget Carpets’ assistance, we can celebrate the achievements of young individuals and provide them with the support they need to pursue their dreams.”

As we celebrate the partnership between Budget Carpets and the Child of Wales Awards, we recognise the importance of creating supportive environments that empower young people to reach their full potential. Together, we continue to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of children and young people, inspiring hope and positive change for generations to come.

One such partner is the Ascona Group, whose support and dedication play a crucial role in honouring the extraordinary individuals who embody bravery and courage.

Join us as we shine a spotlight on the Ascona Group and its invaluable contribution as a sponsor of the Bravery Award & Courageous Family categories of the Child of Wales Awards 2024.

About Ascona Group – sponsor of the Bravery Award & Courageous Family Award

Ascona Group is one of the UK’s fastest growing forecourt operators. With a network portfolio of 62 sites across the UK, serving over 300,000 customers a week and in the top 10 of the Top 50 Independents in the UK. The Group is renowned for its commitment to supporting local communities. Its sponsorship of the Bravery Award & Courageous Family category underscores its dedication to celebrating individuals who demonstrate extraordinary courage in the face of adversity.

Through its partnership with us, here at the Child of Wales Awards, the Ascona Group demonstrates its commitment to recognising and rewarding the young people of Wales who display remarkable bravery and resilience. This support enables us to enhance the awards ceremony, amplify our reach, and support our mission, for which we are deeply grateful.

Darren Briggs, founder and CEO of Ascona Group, said:

“Since we launched Ascona in 2011, supporting our communities has been at the heart of everything we do, so I am very proud that we are able to support the Child of Wales awards in 2024 and invest in the future of our nation – our children.

“We are so inspired by the stories of these young individuals and their families, who have shown such remarkable bravery and courage in the face of real adversity. It is an honour to support the Child of Wales awards as they shine a light on the incredible journeys of some of the UK’s bravest young people and their families, and to be able to celebrate their achievements in front of the entire nation.”

Blanche Sainsbury, Founder of the Child of Wales Awards, added:

“We are deeply grateful for the generous support of the Ascona Group. Its dedication to helping the local community and, in this case, honouring individuals who demonstrate exceptional bravery and courage, aligns perfectly with the ethos of the Child of Wales Awards.”

As we celebrate the partnership between the Ascona Group and the Child of Wales Awards, we are reminded of the power of collaboration in creating positive change.

Together, we continue to uplift and celebrate the incredible achievements of children and young people across Wales. We look forward to continuing our journey of impact and inspiration with the Ascona Group by our side.

While celebrating the remarkable achievements of children and young people across Wales, the Child of Wales Awards is proud to partner with organisations that share our commitment to empowering, recognising, and rewarding young people for their outstanding sporting achievements. One such partner is Commonwealth Games Wales, whose support and dedication play a crucial role in honouring the young sporting heroes over the age of 13.

Join us as we shine a spotlight on Commonwealth Games Wales and their invaluable contribution as a sponsor of the Young Sporting Hero Over 13 category of the Child of Wales Awards 2024.

About Commonwealth Games Wales – sponsor of Young Sporting Hero Over 13

Commonwealth Games Wales is dedicated to promoting sports participation and excellence in Wales. Their sponsorship of the Young Sporting Hero Over 13 category reflects their commitment to recognising and celebrating the exceptional talents of young athletes across the nation.

Through its partnership with us, here at the Child of Wales Awards, Commonwealth Games Wales demonstrates its commitment to supporting young athletes and promoting the values of sportsmanship, dedication, and teamwork. This support enables us to highlight the achievements of these young sporting heroes, amplify our reach, and support our mission, for which we are deeply grateful.

Rebecca Edwards-Symmons, CEO, Commonwealth Games Wales, said:

“Commonwealth Games Wales is proud to stand alongside the Child of Wales Awards, celebrating the exceptional talent and determination of young athletes. Together, we can inspire future champions to reach for their dreams.”

Blanche Sainsbury, Founder of the Child of Wales Awards, added:

“We are thrilled to have Commonwealth Games Wales on board as a sponsor. Their dedication to promoting sports excellence aligns perfectly with our mission at the Child of Wales Awards. Through their support, we can honour the achievements of young athletes and encourage them to reach their full potential.”

As we celebrate the partnership between Commonwealth Games Wales and the Child of Wales Awards, we are reminded of the importance of supporting and celebrating the achievements of young athletes. Together, we continue to uplift and celebrate the incredible talents and achievements of children and young people across Wales. We look forward to continuing our journey of impact and inspiration with Commonwealth Games Wales by our side.

One such partner is Owens Group, whose support and dedication play a crucial role in honouring the young individuals who take on caring responsibilities.

Join us as we shine a spotlight on Owens Group and their invaluable contribution as a sponsor of the Young Carer category of the Child of Wales Awards 2024.

About Owens Group – sponsor of Young Carer Award

Owens Group is one of the UK’s leading family-owned Transport, Warehousing & Distribution Companies. It is dedicated to supporting communities and individuals across Wales. Its sponsorship of the Young Carer category reflects their commitment to recognising and celebrating the selfless dedication of young individuals who provide care and support for their loved ones.

Through its partnership with us, here at the Child of Wales Awards, Owens Group demonstrates its commitment to supporting and empowering young carers who make significant sacrifices to care for others. This support enables us to highlight the achievements of these young individuals, amplify our reach, and support our mission, for which we are deeply grateful.

David Owen, Owens Group, said:

“Owens Group are proud to be associated with the Child of Wales Awards 2024 and delighted to sponsor the Exceptional Young Carer Award.

“Over the last 50 years since Owens Group started, we have been very prominent in giving back to charities, local communities, and sporting clubs. What these young, inspirational children do daily for their family, friends and the local community is truly breath-taking and to be a part of giving something back to them is so important to us.

“As a proud Welsh business, we’re looking forward to celebrating the event in what should be a great night.”

Blanche Sainsbury, Founder of the Child of Wales Awards, added:

“We are thrilled to have Owens Group as a sponsor of the Young Carer category. Their commitment to supporting young carers aligns perfectly with our mission at the Child of Wales Awards. Through their support, we can celebrate the selflessness and resilience of young individuals who make a difference in the lives of others.”

As we celebrate the partnership between Owens Group and the Child of Wales Awards, we are reminded of the importance of supporting and celebrating the efforts of young carers. Together, we continue to uplift and celebrate the incredible contributions of children and young people across Wales. We look forward to continuing our journey of impact and inspiration with Owens Group by our side.

One such partner is Westacres, whose support and dedication play a crucial role in honouring the courageous children under the age of 13.

Join us as we shine a spotlight on Westacres and their invaluable contribution as a sponsor of the Child of Courage U13 category of the Child of Wales Awards 2024.

About Westacres – sponsor of Child of Courage U13

Westacres is an associate company of Morganstone Ltd established in 2008. Its sponsorship of the Child of Courage U13 category reflects its commitment to recognising and celebrating the bravery and resilience of young individuals facing significant challenges.

Through its partnership with us, here at the Child of Wales Awards, Westacres demonstrates its commitment to supporting and uplifting courageous children. This support enables us to honour the extraordinary courage of these young individuals, amplify our reach, and support our mission, for which we are deeply grateful.

Tonia Morgan, Director, Westacres, said:

“Westacres is absolutely delighted to be sponsoring the Child of Courage under 13 category at this year’s Child of Wales Awards. We feel it is so important that the incredible achievements of some of our country’s most inspiring children are recognised. These awards provide the opportunity to shine a light on a group of incredible youngsters who demonstrate true ambition, courage, dedication and determination to overcome all adversities.”

Blanche Sainsbury, Founder of the Child of Wales Awards, added:

“We are delighted to have Westacres as a sponsor of the Child of Courage U13 category. Their dedication to supporting children facing challenges aligns perfectly with our mission at the Child of Wales Awards. Through their support, we can celebrate the bravery and resilience of young children and inspire others to overcome adversity.”

As we celebrate the partnership between Westacres and the Child of Wales Awards, we are reminded of the importance of supporting and celebrating the courage of young individuals. Together, we continue to uplift and celebrate the incredible bravery and resilience of children and young people across Wales. We look forward to continuing our journey of impact and inspiration with Westacres by our side.

It’s great to hear about a student from South Wales who is bravely preparing to have her dreadlocks – which she has been growing since the age of 13 – shaved off to raise vital funds for one of our partner charities, NSPCC Cymru.

Emma Robinson from Barry has made the decision to part with her locks after recognising the impact the pandemic is having on the mental health of children and young people, and those who live in abusive homes.

“I want to raise as much money for the NSPCC as possible because the pandemic has been tough for everyone – even those among us that have a safe and comfortable home,” says Emma.

“I can’t imagine being a child living in an abusive household; feeling trapped not only by lockdown restrictions but by the family that should be supporting you through it.”

The shockwaves of the coronavirus pandemic are being felt in every community across Wales, but many children have been the hidden victims, suffering abuse and neglect at home, increased risk online, or further pressures on their mental health.

The 20-year-old university student says: “With suicide rates in young people rapidly rising, it is essential we help out these children in any way we can and sometimes a call to a helpline such as Childline can be all it takes to save a young life.

“After months of deliberating and annoying those close to me with my indecisiveness, I have finally decided to shave off my dreadlocks which I have had since I was 13.

“It’s hard to remember a life without them now, so it’s going to be an emotional day. It’s been a very big decision for me to make, but I’m doing it knowing that every pound raised could help save a child from an abusive household and set them up for a fulfilled future.”

The NSPCC is continuing to adapt the way it works in Wales so that it can support children at a time when children and young people are spending more time away from friends and relatives, and vulnerable children are at risk.

Children and young people have told Childline about new feelings of anxiety and depression, while others have shared how the pandemic is intensifying issues they were already having at home. The emotional burden spending more time inside is having on children and young people is very real and for those who live in households that are not safe, it’s a particularly stressful and uneasy time.

Childline has 12 bases across the UK, including in Cardiff and Prestatyn, where specially trained volunteer counsellors answer contacts from worried children across the UK and Channel Islands.

Between April and September, there were 3,665 contacts made to Childline from children and young people in Wales. Almost half of these contacts were about mental or emotional wellbeing, and nearly 500 were about suicidal thoughts and feelings.

NSPCC Cymru’s Supporter Fundraising Manager, Emma Brennan says: “We rely on public support for 90% of our income to help us fund services like Childline and we simply wouldn’t be able to support the children we do without supporters like Emma.

“The money raised for our charity helps fund NSPCC helplines and frontline services, which we are continuing to adapt to support children and their families in Wales through our direct services and free Speak Out. Stay Safe assemblies.”

The charity’s Schools Service has adapted its safeguarding assemblies to a virtual offer for now, which all primary schools across Wales can sign up to for free.

In an accessible and age-appropriate way, the assembly teaches children about Childline and helps them understand how to recognise different forms of abuse and how to speak out if they need to. As well as this, it also focuses on some of the additional worries that children are experiencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Emma, who is a third-year student studying philosophy at the University of Glasgow, will be having her locks shaved on Tuesday 1 December. To find out more about the fundraiser visit Emma’s JustGiving page and to find out how you can help fundraise for the NSPCC visit the charity’s website.

Any adult concerned about the welfare of a child or young person can call the NSPCC helpline for free and confidential advice on 0808 800 5000 or visit nspcc.org.uk

Children can call Childline on 0800 11 11 from 7.30am to midnight from Monday to Friday or 9am to midnight on weekends. Or they can get in touch via 1-2-1 chat on www.childline.org.uk. Childline also has a huge online community where children can get support from their peers on message-boards and use expert resources to help them through any issue they are concerned about.

Nominate a special teacher who has gone the extra mile during lockdown learning!

Welcome to our final weekly assembly & shine a light blog. After many months of engaging with parents and children grappling with the challenges of lockdown and home schooling, as restrictions ease and schools start to reopen, we felt it was time to start a new chapter.

We have loved your support and engagement with our weekly assemblies. But we are now turning our attention to something new: to all the amazing teachers in Wales who support and inspire their pupils every day – and all through lockdown.

Child of Wales is asking you to honour a special teacher who has gone the extra mile in lockdown learning. A teacher who has supported you and made learning easier. Teachers change and shape lives and we would like to say a huge thank you to all teachers who do an incredible job.

You can nominate them by sending in a short video, picture or letter explaining why you feel your hero teacher should be recognised. Send your nomination to shughes@bluestonewales.com

Teachers change and shape lives and we would like to say a huge thank you to all teachers.

You do an incredible job.

While we will not be doing the weekly assembly anymore, keep following us for future updates including, of course, to see teachers you have nominated recognised for all their hard work.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement.

Mrs Hart

Advisor to Child of Wales

Stay true to yourself

In September 2020 all Primary Schools in England must teach their pupils that different types of families exist. I think this is a fantastic step forward and long overdue. There are new regulations for teaching Relationships Education within English schools (RSE). This will mean that pupils will be taught that some families have two mums or two dads.

Thankfully, support will also be offered to pupils who may have experienced bullying or anxiety-related issues. In many ways, it is hard to believe that this has taken until 2020 for this to formally be put in place. It is important that all members of our society are reflected in the school curriculum.

It is ground-breaking for schools in England and hopefully, it will mean that Primary Schools will be taking steps in ensuring that this is no longer a taboo topic for some. Children should feel proud of who they are and the families they belong to. It is important to teach others to love, not hate.

Stonewall: Acceptance without Exception – Stonewall.org.uk

This is an LGBT rights charity and its founders include Sir Ian McKellan and Lord Cashman CBE. This is a magnificent charity that empowers LGBT people and allies to make a change. Stonewall site includes training courses, Children and Young People Services and best practice, toolkits and resources.

‘No Outsiders: Everyone different, Everyone Welcome’ by Andrew Moffat MBE

This resource provides strong support for teachers with lesson plans for every age range from Early Years to Year Six. It recommends powerful storybooks and lesson plans. I like this because there is also a section on engaging parents.

Pink News – 11 LGBT inclusive Children’s books!

Great recommendations of books to share with your little ones including ‘And Tango Makes Three’ by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell. This beautiful book is based on a true story of two male penguins looking after an egg. The list of books also includes ‘Mommy, Mama and Me’ by Leslea Newman depicting a lesbian couple and their little one. Leslea is the author of over fifty books, including ‘Heather Has Two Mommies’.

In our assembly today we celebrate a leader who has stayed true to himself and did not want to keep pretending to be someone he was not. Gareth Thomas, former Captain of Wales Rugby Union, is a legend for so many more reasons other than his magnificent sporting talent. I believe Gareth Thomas is a role model for so many people, young and old. As a child, he had a dream.

‘I am very proud of my rugby playing career but more proud of the fact that Wales supported me to play rugby for being Gareth Thomas. Being the person that I am, 100%.’

We should be free to love who we want and not be judged. We should love, not hate. As we have explored in so many of our assemblies, it is important to be true to yourself and be proud of who you are. The people who really matter will be the people who love you no matter what.

When you know you are not being completely honest, it can make the dream seem worthless. While on your journey to achieving your dreams, it is important that you are honest with people, most importantly, with yourself.

Some people step on others to get to where they need to be. Others lift people up. Gareth Thomas has lifted people up and given so many others hope. When you are proud of your actions then you can really say that you are living the dream.

We can all have dreams and ambitions. It is important to stay true to ourselves on our journey. We need people who dream of making change and have true courage to stand up and make a difference when they see unfairness. In doing so, you can bring about change for others.

Mrs Hart, Adviser to Child of Wales.

Follow your dreams

The great Martin Luther King had a dream. He wanted to make change in the world happen. He wanted fairness and equality for all people, regardless of the colour of their skin. He was a peaceful man and a powerful speaker.

I have often said to children I have had the privilege to teach that in a different time, in a different place, we would not have been allowed to play together because of the colour of our skin.

I have always said that dreams and ambitions really can come true. If you dream of being the next Prime Minister or if you dream of driving a bus, we all have our roles to play and no one is more important than anyone else.

Now, more than at any other time, many have realised that nurses, shop assistants, rubbish collectors and transport workers are equally as important. Our skills may be different, but we all need each other. We are all valuable in helping to make our world a better place.

Whatever you dream of being, the saying ‘be the best that you can be’ is very true.

‘Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.’ Martin Luther King Jnr.

Mrs Hart’s Dream believers!

There are many people who have had a dream and been brave enough to make their dream come true. Explore and research these people and their lives. There are listed websites to help you.

kidskonnect.com – Malala Yousafzai. Why is this brave young girl so inspirational and why did she receive the Nobel peace prize? Lots of facts and worksheets for children to research. What is the one thing you would stand up for no matter what?

activityvillage.co.uk – Helen Keller. How frustrating must it be to not be able to see? Play some blindfold games and explore your senses. This includes designing an award for Helen Keller and newspaper writing. Write some ‘Senses’ poems on what we appreciate more in lockdown.

Natgeokids.com – Mary Seacole. We all learned about Florence Nightingale a few weeks ago and discovered how she was determined to make her dreams come true. She pursued her ambition and became known as the ‘Lady with the Lamp’. Why was Mary known as Mother Seacole and why was she was one of a kind?!

‘Salt in His Shoes – Michael Jordan, in Pursuit of a Dream’. By Deloris Jordan. Learn about the making of a Champ. A must read for any family wanting to make a child’s dreams come true.

‘Giraffes Can’t Dance’ – When someone tells you can’t do something, this book will teach them to say ‘I can’t…YET!’ A fabulous book! Do you laugh at people if they can’t do something? Find out as many facts about giraffes and even perform a funny dance of your own?! If the family can learn a dance together why not put it on Tik Tok?!

‘Amazing Grace’ – A good old favourite, you can be anything you want to be, just follow your dreams! A beautiful book that teaches children about believing in themselves. There are a series of books by Mary Hoffman. Enjoy others including ‘Boundless Grace’, ‘Grace and Family’ and ‘Princess Grace’.

Unstoppable Me! – By Dr Wayne W. Dyer. A fantastic book for children with a positive message on striving to attain their dreams. It deals with anxiety, stress and learning to live in the moment.

‘This is Your Life!’ – Interview a member of your family! Mum/Dad/Grandparents. What were/are their dreams, ambitions, jobs and experiences? Make a presentation to them in a ‘This is Your Life’ style evening including photographs and music! Make the presentation into a keepsake book to enjoy for years to come.

‘Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.’ Martin Luther King Jnr.

We celebrate Martin Luther King today and every day. Never stop believing in your dreams, you really can do anything if you want to! Encourage others to pursue their dreams. The best dreams are the ones that create change not just for you but for others too.

‘If you can dream it, you can do it.’ Walt Disney.

Mrs Hart, Adviser to Child of Wales.

Unveiling our new logo for the Child of Wales Awards 2024

Nominate a special teacher who has gone the extra mile during lockdown learning!

Stay true to yourself

Follow your dreams