10 March 2026
Students from the William Henry Smith Specialist College took centre stage at the Engage in Their Future National Awards Ceremony 2026, held on World Book Day last week.
The national event, held at the Contact Theatre in Manchester, brought together schools and Colleges from across the country to celebrate courage, resilience, creativity and achievement - and we are delighted that several of our Foundation students were among this year’s nominees and winners.
The ceremony, hosted by trustees Will Washington and Sue Ackroyd, honoured young people whose journeys reflect extraordinary determination and personal growth. The atmosphere was one of pride, celebration and hope - values that sit at the heart of the William Henry Smith Foundation community.
The William Henry Smith Specialist College Band (image left)
opened the show with two songs.
College student Sam Webster (image right) gave
an inspiring opening talk to the audience about his journey,
what he learnt about himself and how he can inspire others to
follow. He then presented all the awards to the winners throughout the ceremony.
Foundation staff nominated the following students, who were shortlisted and invited to attend:
William Coney – Gold Award Winner
Biggest Journey – Further Education
William was awarded Gold in the Biggest Journey – Further Education category, recognising extraordinary resilience and transformation.
William’s journey has been one of remarkable courage. From finding it incredibly difficult to engage with education or the world beyond home, he has steadily rebuilt his confidence with determination and the right support.
Today, William has formed meaningful friendships, contributes through community volunteering, engages successfully in mainstream learning and has completed professional healthcare training aligned with his future ambitions.
His focus, commitment and growth are nothing short of inspirational. William’s story is a powerful reminder of what is possible when perseverance meets belief and opportunity.
Oliver Heeley – Gold
Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds
Oliver was awarded Gold in the Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds category and received a one-year gym membership sponsored by Total Fitness.
This award celebrates the powerful link between physical wellbeing and mental resilience, and Oliver truly embodies both.
Through dedicated personal training, involvement in multiple sports and a determination to overcome personal barriers - including learning to swim - Oliver has demonstrated outstanding perseverance and commitment. Beyond his own achievements, he actively mentors and encourages others, participates in fundraising and challenge events, and models the importance of self-care and community wellbeing.
Oliver’s journey reflects not only personal strength, but the positive impact one individual can have on those around them. We are incredibly proud of him.
Matthew McNulty – Silver Award Winner
Bright Futures
This category recognises young people building strong pathways towards independence, employment and adulthood.
Matthew’s journey is one of courage and ambition. After overcoming significant challenges, he now fully embraces school life — working on the school farm, attending residential experiences and even travelling abroad.
Beyond school, Matthew has stepped confidently into leadership roles. He serves as a scout leader, has achieved his Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, secured a place in the police cadets from over 600 applicants, and completed work experience with the transport police with impressive maturity.
His resilience, confidence and commitment to a future in public service make him a truly deserving recipient. Matthew represents the very best of future-ready determination.
A Proud Moment for Our Community
To have three students recognised at a national awards ceremony is an incredible achievement - but more importantly, it reflects the individual journeys each young person has taken. These awards celebrate far more than outcomes; they celebrate growth, resilience, courage and hope.
We would like to thank our dedicated staff and supportive families, whose belief and encouragement help our students take those vital “next steps” every day.
To William and Sam - we are immensely proud of you. Your achievements inspire not only our College community but everyone privileged enough to hear your stories.