This year was our biggest yet, with a record-breaking 350 nominations! From reaching academic goals to making a real difference in their communities, all of these young people have shown incredible resilience, talent and hard work. Out of all the nominees, 13 top award winners were chosen by our judging panel.

The celebration took place at the beautiful Marleybrook House near Canterbury, where young people arrived with their proud foster carers, personal advisers or social workers. After receiving their awards, everyone enjoyed the vintage funfair and tasty food.

It was also a great chance for senior staff and County Councillors to hear first-hand about the inspiring achievements of our young people. We were joined by KCC Chairman Richard Palmer, along with Cabinet Members Christine Palmer and Pamela Williams, who were all blown away by the stories shared throughout the evening.

We’re so proud of every single young person who was nominated and their achievements!

As an intern, you will work at the heart of government, contributing to a wide range of policies and projects that shape the nation. This 18-month paid internship offers a unique opportunity to develop professionally, gain insight into the workings of government, and build a strong foundation for future employment.

Applicants must be aged 18-30 at the time of applying. Only those who are already 18 will be considered.

This scheme is open to applicants who were eligible for a leaving care support package when leaving care.

Young People on Special Guardianship Orders who qualify for advice and assistance as per the Children Act are also eligible to apply.

Young people from Kinship Care, formal or otherwise, are not eligible for this scheme.

No qualifications are required for this internship, however you will need to provide examples that clearly demonstrate the criteria listed.

You may be offered the option of an apprenticeship as part of your role and development depending on which department you are allocated to if successful.

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The team presented a short film celebrating unaccompanied asylum seeking young people about what they enjoy about living in Kent.

There was also an art exhibition, displaying some thought provoking art work from young people staying at Safe Care and Reception centres in Kent.

The day was a chance to celebrate culture, music, dance, art and personal stories from our young people.

The young people were joined first by representatives from Become, the charity for Children in Care and Care Leavers, who spoke to them about their #GoneTooFar Campaign, which aims to keep children in care close to the people and places that matter to them. Matthew and Anne-Marie then invited them to create manifestos about how they would change the care system for the better. Young people concentrated on issues like seeing family, increasing funding for children’s services so there are more social workers who stay for longer, more preparation for adulthood and independence and greater opportunities for care experienced young people and young adults.

We also had the artist, Pen Mendonca join us. She created a beautiful artwork about what we discussed.

Then after a buffet lunch, Jerome from the Care Leaders led a session called ‘The Power to Lead’. He spoke to the groups about how to share their messages of change in an authentic, relevant and focused way and led the young people in several exciting, interactive games about overcoming obstacles and working together.

Finally, members of each Children in Care Council told the group about themselves and shared some of their key achievements and successes.

It was a fabulous session which demonstrated just how articulate, passionate and fantastic all of our Care Experienced Young People are; it was a privilege to learn from each other and hear their voices! We are looking forward to working together again in the future.