Myton School’s caring and supportive side is recognised

Headteacher Paul MacIntyre was presented with a silver award by Anthony Bishop, manager of the Warwickshire Young Carers Project in recognition of the awareness, organisation, support policy and feedback that he and his staff have put in place.

Mr MacIntyre said: “We currently have 26 pupils aged between 11 and 18 who are identified as Young Carers and we are extremely proud of what they are achieving at Myton School.

“They demonstrate the caring, supportive and positive attitudes which are the very best features of great comprehensive community education.”

The school could aspire to gold and even platinum awards for future years but Carolyn Haines, who is the designated student support manager, said: “So often people don’t realise that although young carers learn practical and caring skills at an early age and can be seen as ‘copers,’ it is important to remember that they are ordinary young people with the same needs as others of their age, both academically and emotionally.

“The school does recognise the double burden on these young people and offer the extra support they deserve.”

In addition to advice and friendship offered by specialists at the county-wide project, Myton organisers a regular forum to come up with ideas for fun days out and fundraising ideas like the cake sale held last month that brought in £42 towards trips.

There’s also a Young Carers Club that meets at The Gap in Warwick once a fortnight where youngsters can relax, cook, play games and networth with others who have a similar caring role.