Priory's 'young volunteer of the year' at community awards

Tonight sees the presentation ceremony for the South Ribble Community Awards and Rhianne has already been assured of her award.

The Year 9 pupil was put forward for the 'Young Volunteer of the Year' along with Humanities teacher, Miss Ackers who is shortlisted for the 'Teacher of the Year'.

The awards celebrate those individuals, groups and organisations across South Ribble that consistently go above and beyond their call of duty to make a positive difference within our communities.

Rhianne has been volunteering at South Ribble Tennis Club for around four years and is a dedicated member of the club.  The 14 year old volunteers every weekend for four hours.

On Saturday morning from 10-12, Rhianne works with the 5+ years while on Sunday mornings, from 9-11, she volunteers with 3+ years.

Her role involves taking warm-ups with the children and showing them how to complete various tasks. Rhianne helps the coaches which could mean cleaning spilled drinks on the court, fetching equipment and setting it up.  

As well as this, Rhianne volunteers at any events held at the club, whether it’s open days, children’s parties or holiday clubs.  Recently, there was an open day allowing children to try tennis for free and Rhianne spent three hours assisting children and parents.  “It was an enjoyable experience,” said Rhianne.

As well as playing tennis and volunteering, Rhianne has taken a Tennis Leaders course. It involved running a three-day tournament for school children and completing multiple training days.

It’s her first step on the way to becoming a qualified tennis coach and she can start this qualification when she is 15.

“I get a great deal of satisfaction from volunteering,” said Rhianne. “It’s rewarding watching children who began four years ago progressing through the ranks. The coaches ask for me to help with their holiday camps and it’s a nice feeling to know I am useful to them."

Rhianne has been commended for the Young Volunteer of the Year Award by South Ribble Borough Council.  She will receive her certificate from the organisers after the ceremony.  In the meantime, tonight sees Miss Ackers go up against Miss Stone of Cop Lane Primary School and Mr Mitchell, Headteacher at Seven Stars Primary school for 'Teacher of the Year'.   We wish Miss Ackers the best of luck!