Pupils at a Barrow school have joined Cumbria Lieutenancy’s new honours programme.
Ormsgill Nursery and Primary School’s year six pupils are among the first in the county to take part in the scheme, which aims to inspire pupils, strengthen citizenship and raise aspirations.
The scheme is giving the youngsters a chance to learn about how people from all walks of life contribute to their communities and how their contributions can be recognised through national honours.
Working with the Cumbria Lieutenancy, the school will introduce pupils to local honours recipients.
It will give them a chance ask questions, hear personal stories and understand the real-life impact of dedication to community and public service.
The King’s Birthday Honours List was announced at the weekend recognising celebrities and local community heroes for their achievements or service to the country by awarding them with honours such as an OBE, MBE or CBE.
The pupils will explore what it means to receive an honour, research local recipients and learn about their achievements in public life and service to the community.
Assistant Headteacher Jessica Corless, who is leading the project, said: “We want our pupils to see that people from communities just like ours can go on to achieve incredible things – not for fame or reward but through service and commitment.
“By learning about the honours system and meeting local role models our pupils can begin to see themselves as active citizens who have the power to make a positive difference in the world around them.”
Julie Barton, Cumbria Deputy Lieutenant, said she believes the programme will raise aspirations and inspire the children.
She added: “Cumbria Lieutenancy is delighted to work with Ormsgill School on this innovative programme, which will help young people learn about those inspiring contributions while encouraging them to think about the positive impact they can have themselves.
“By raising aspirations and introducing pupils to local role models, we hope to show that everyone has the potential to help and inspire others and make a positive contribution to their community.
“These are important lessons in citizenship, leadership and service that will stay with them long into the future.”
Ormsgill pupils Phoebe and Siena said they are enjoying learning about the awards, why people are honoured and what skills they have.
Phoebe said: “It made me think about our own heroes, what I might want to achieve and how I can help, like caring for people and helping the homeless.”
Siena said: “It inspired me to think it’s something that I could do too one day if I have special qualities and make a difference in the community.”
The programme will also be running in Vickerstown Primary School which is also part of South Cumbria Multi-Academy Trust.
It will culminate in a whole school celebration to showcase the ways in which the pupils plan to contribute to their school, community and wider society in the years ahead.
