Wiltshire Star Awards Celebrate Achievements of Children in Care and Care-Experienced Young People

Children in care and care-experienced young people from across Wiltshire have been recognised for their determination, resilience and achievements at Wiltshire Council's annual Star Awards.

The ceremony took place at Trowbridge Civic Centre on Thursday 22 October 2026, bringing together young people, foster carers, families, social workers, personal advisers, councillors and partner organisations to celebrate the successes of young people across the county.

The awards recognised achievements in education, employment, sport, the arts, personal development and community involvement, highlighting the many ways young people are overcoming challenges and working towards their ambitions.

Throughout the evening, young people were celebrated for reaching educational milestones, developing independence, supporting their peers, volunteering and making positive contributions to their local communities.

The event also provided an opportunity for young people to showcase their talents, with performances on stage helping make the evening a memorable celebration of their abilities and accomplishments.

Nominations came from people who know and support the young people, including family members, foster carers, teachers, social workers, personal advisers and Virtual School staff.

The awards were presented across three categories, with recognition given to young people in primary, secondary and post-16 age groups.

The Smashed It! category recognised young people who had overcome significant challenges or achieved something remarkable. Future Pioneers! celebrated success in education, employment, sport, the arts and personal development, while Taking Part! honoured those who had made a positive difference through volunteering, leadership or community involvement.

Cllr Jon Hubbard, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Education and Skills at Wiltshire Council, said the awards demonstrated the talent, determination and potential of children in care and care-experienced young people.

He said the stories shared during the event showed how young people had overcome difficulties, achieved their goals, supported others and contributed positively to their communities.

Cllr Hubbard added that every nominee and winner should be proud of their achievements, describing it as a privilege to celebrate their success alongside them.

He also paid tribute to the foster carers, families, council staff and other professionals who provide daily support and encouragement, recognising the important role they play in helping young people thrive.

This year's Star Awards were sponsored by Connor Construction (South West) Ltd, whose representatives attended the ceremony and helped present trophies and certificates.

Ian Webb, Director at Connor Construction (South West) Ltd, said the company was proud to support the awards and recognise the achievements of the young people.

He described their stories as inspiring, highlighting the resilience, determination and positivity demonstrated throughout the evening.

The annual Star Awards form part of Wiltshire Council's recognition of children in care and care-experienced young people, giving them an opportunity to have their achievements celebrated by the people and organisations supporting them.

The ceremony highlighted the importance of recognising individual progress, celebrating personal milestones and ensuring young people receive encouragement as they continue to develop their skills, pursue their ambitions and contribute to their communities.

By bringing together young people, families, carers and professionals, the event offered an opportunity to celebrate not only individual achievements but also the support networks that help make those successes possible.