The Archbishop of York last night presented Young Leaders Awards to students from Manor Church of England Academy.

Dr John Sentamu presented the Year 8 students with 190 badges and certificates in recognition of their achievement.

The Young Leaders Award is a course for secondary school students that combines classroom learning with practical projects focused on community action.

The aim of the course, developed by the Archbishop of York Youth Trust, is to equip young people to be a force for good in their local community.

Community action projects carried out by the Manor students included litter picking and fundraising cake sales.

Dr John Sentamu said: “It is a joy to hear about the work that these young people have done in this community. They are an inspiration to us all. This is just the start of the journey.

"Thousands of other students across the north of England will be graduating from the Young Leaders Award soon.

"I know that together these young people can set the example in changing our communities for the better.

"These young people have looked specifically at what they could do individually to serve others and bring hope to people’s lives."

As part of the Young Leaders Award, the students also had the opportunity to explore the role of charitable organisations and study people of faith and how they influence the world positively.

Brian Crosby, the Principal of Manor Church of England Academy said: “I have witnessed stunning work from boys and girls researching amazing individuals such as Elizabeth Fry and William Wilberforce.

"Through the Young Leaders Award, The Archbishop of York Youth Trust will impact every single student in the school and develop a generation of young people committed to making their communities fairer and better places to live.”

Luke Mulligan, one of the Year 8 students said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed the Young Leaders Award and would recommend it to anyone.

“It’s benefited me greatly and has helped me to understand different people’s beliefs and opinions.

"The Award has also helped me to think about jobs in the future because it has taught me to stand up for what I believe in and has helped me think that I can do anything I set my mind to."