Two Widnes schools, Saints Peter and Paul Catholic High School and St Gerard’s Catholic Primary School, took home top honours at the second annual Halton Borough Council Aiming High Halton Education Awards, hosted by Cronton Sixth Form College.

Charlotte Coffey, a Year 6 pupil at St Gerard’s Catholic Primary School, was named Inspirational Young Person of the Year.

She said: “I’m so, so happy to win an award, I can’t believe it, it was such a surprise. I love my school and I want to say thank you to all my friends and teachers for being there for me this year. I think I’ll put my trophy up in our living room.” 

Matthew Lorne, English teacher and chaplain at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic High School, received the Inspirational Teacher of the Year award.

He said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this award, and to share this celebration with Charlotte makes it even more special. It reflects the strength of our parish community and the shared mission we have to support young people in achieving their goals and dreams.”

Mrs Danielle Scott, principal of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic High School, praised both winners: “These awards highlight the depth of talent, dedication, and quality that exists across Catholic primary and secondary education in Halton, as well as the commitment of local families.”

Mr Karl Landrum, headteacher at St Gerard’s Catholic Primary School, added: “Charlotte’s award is a testament to her remarkable strength through adversity and her resilience in the face of challenges.”

Saints Peter and Paul Catholic High School also celebrated further success. Ethan Wang was shortlisted for Incredible Student Achievement, Benji Hidayat for Sports and Culture Student of the Year, and the school’s Expressive Arts Team for Team of the Year.