Sixth Form student wins Sunderland Young Achievers’ awards 2025

Sunderland College student Holly Stoker’s commitment and enthusiasm for sport was celebrated at the recent Sunderland Young Achiever’s Awards.

Holly, who is studying A-Levels in the college’s sixth form, won the Sport and Physical Activity Award after excelling in competitive swimming and rowing while promoting physical fitness in her community and inspiring others with her passion and dedication.

The Sunderland Young Achievers’ Awards – organised by Sunderland City Council and Together for Children – celebrate the achievements of children and young people aged 8 to 18 or up to 25 with a special educational need or disability (SEND), recognising their bravery, talent and positive contributions to their communities.

Winning the Sport and Physical Activity not only recognised Holly’s individual achievements but also the impact of sport and physical exercise on young people’s health and wellbeing.

After completing her A-Levels at Sunderland College Sixth Form, Holly hopes to progress to a sports scholarship programme in the USA, which again recognises her fantastic sporting talent and potential.

Commenting on Holly’s award, Adam Sams Director of Sunderland Sixth Form, said: “We’re incredibly proud of Holly in her success with winning this award! Holly is truly a role model to her peers within the Sixth Form and wider college – she epitomises all of the key traits which make for an exceptional student, person and athlete.

“Holly is quiet, but her friendly and polite character is so evident to staff and students – her commitment to her studies and dedication cannot be questioned, constantly striving to achieve the best in all she sets out to achieve. Without question those same traits and values, not to mention her natural skill within both swimming and rowing, have determined her successes to date and will undoubtedly continue into the future. A huge congratulations from all of us, Holly!”

The Sunderland Young Achiever’s awards are open to individuals or groups living in Sunderland including Washington, Houghton and Hetton. This year the award categories were revamped with categories including Arts and Culture, Health and Wellbeing, Mental Health, Environmental Champion, Youth Voice, Personal Growth and – brand new for 2025 – the Music and Bringing Communities Together award.

This year’s celebration took place at The Fire Station, a relatively new and upcoming venue within Sunderland, which celebrates and champions culture, community and vibrancy across the city.

Tammy Banks, Chair of the Together for Children Board, said: “These awards shine a light on the incredible accomplishments, talents, and positive contributions of young people in our community, reminding us all of the huge difference they are making every day.

“Their stories are emotional, compassionate, full of success and truly uplifting. They remind us of the kindness, resilience, and dedication that define our young people. Each nominee is making a real difference, and it’s a huge honour to be able to recognise and celebrate their outstanding contributions.”

Councillor Michael Butler, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Child Poverty and Skills at Sunderland City Council said: “The Sunderland Young Achievers Awards provide a platform to recognise exceptional individuals those who have triumphed over adversity, shown extraordinary bravery, demonstrated relentless hard work, or devoted themselves to helping others. They embody the very best of Sunderland.