A pupil from Ysgol Plas Cefndy in Rhyl has picked up the ‘The Prince’s Trust Ascential Education Award’, a nationally recognized award throughout the UK. Rhys was also awarded with the ‘Wales Education Award’ earlier this year.

This award is a huge achievement for Rhys, who only 2 years ago could not leave his bedroom due to his anxiety levels. Rhys was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) back in 2020, and had completely withdrawn from education due to struggles with anxiety. At times, Rhys’ anxiety got so bad that he found he could not go to school.

Rhys was referred to Milestones, Ysgol Plas Cefndy, which is a pupil referral unit that helps young people who feel they are struggling, based in Rhyl.

The awards were live streamed from London yesterday, and Rhys was presented with the award by Ant and Dec.

Councillor Gill German, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Education, Children and Families said:

“The staff at Ysgol Plas Cefndy regularly go above and beyond to support the young people they teach. This award is a testament to their work.

I met with Rhys when he won his previous award, and what a journey he has been on!

I’d like to thank everyone involved with supporting Rhys at Ysgol Plas Cefndy and the wider education team.

The Prince’s Trust do amazing work, and their awards are so prestigious. For Rhys to win a nationally recognised award is just brilliant.

A life transformed, it’s incredible. A huge congratulations to Rhys.”