Minister of State Sarah Teather MP with WSCC Lib Dem Children's Spokesman and Cllr Hazel Thorpe

Nearly 300 people attended the EPIC (Exceptional People in Care) 2012 award ceremony, celebrating the achievements of Looked After Children and Care Leavers in West Sussex.

There were 90 award winners celebrated at the event, held at the Charmandean Centre in Worthing, from first/primary schools, secondary schools, special schools, further education colleges, work place learning providers and universities.

Guests included the Leader of West Sussex County Council Louise Goldsmith, the Cabinet Member for Children and Families Peter Evans, the Cabinet Member for Education and Schools Peter Griffiths, the Lord Lieutenant of West Sussex Susan Pyper and the High Sheriff of West Sussex David Tupper.

Peter Evans said: “This was the first year for the awards in a new format. Thanks to recommendations from the West Sussex Children in Care Council, the awards have been revitalised and are a chance to celebrate the achievements of our Looked After Children and Care Leavers.

“The stars of the day were the children and young people. We had truly inspirational care leavers speaking at the awards, a performance by a talented singer and of course, all the award winners.

“Congratulations to everyone who won an award at this memorable event.”

Candidates were nominated by teachers, tutors, social workers and health professionals in recognition of achievements in four categories:

·          Volunteering
·          Education and learning
·          Sports and cultural activities
·          Overcoming adversity

Each winner was presented with a medal and certificate.

The awards were organised by the County Council’s Virtual School for Looked After Children. The service coordinates strategic and operational educational services for looked after children.

It supports and challenges those involved in the education of a looked after child, to help raise achievement levels. Virtual schools have been a success across the country, with more than 135 local authorities adopting the approach.