Celebrating Character and Citizenship in Wantage
The Cambrian Trust Platinum Awards
7/10/20252 min read


This evening, I had the immense pleasure of presenting the Platinum Character and Citizenship Awards to Year 6 pupils from primary schools across the Cambrian Learning Trust. Held in Wantage, the ceremony was a joyful and heartening celebration of something our world needs more than ever – young people with strong character and a sense of citizenship.
Now, I admit, I probably stood out. Arriving as High Sheriff of Oxfordshire means arriving in full regalia – silver buckles, breeches, and a lace jabot included. But this old role has always been about serving the community and encouraging good citizenship, and there could hardly be a better place to do that than here – with young people who’ve shown the very best of what character means.
The Cambrian Trust’s awards are a bit like a junior version of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – and I do know a thing or two about that. Like DofE, these awards encourage young people to try something new, to give of themselves, and to develop confidence, resilience, and purpose. Through four thoughtful strands – Essential Me, Enthusiastic Me, Courageous Me, and Responsible Me – these awards are helping pupils grow into exactly the kind of citizens our communities need.
What made the evening even more special was the presence of others who also care deeply about young people’s development. I was delighted to see Jim Sibbald, Deputy Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, who has supported these awards from their very beginning and continues to be a stalwart champion of their values.
We were also joined by civic leaders from across the area. Alan Ford, Mayor of Faringdon, cut a fine figure in his chain of office and a rather natty corduroy waistcoat – a bold choice on such a warm evening, but pulled off with flair. Iain Cameron, Mayor of Wantage, came in support of the schools in his patch, chainless on this occasion due to some running repairs – though no less distinguished for it.
The children, however, were the true stars. One by one, they stepped forward – some beaming, some bashful – to collect their Platinum Awards. Their pride, their sense of achievement, and the quiet joy on their families’ faces made it abundantly clear: this is what education is really about.
The Cambrian Learning Trust and its schools have put time, care and real heart into designing these awards to ensure that every child is included and supported to succeed. They’re not just about reward – they’re about recognition. And I can think of few better ways to prepare children not only for secondary school, but for life.
As I told them: Your character will matter more than your job title. Being a good person will always be more important than being a famous one.
Congratulations to all the award winners – and thank you to the teachers, leaders, and community partners who make moments like this possible. You’re building something wonderful.
The Oxfordshire Shrievalty
Championing justice and community across Oxfordshire
© 2025. All rights reserved.