A STUDENT from Abergele has won The Prince’s Trust Wales Education Award.

Rhys Morris, who studies uniformed protective services at Coleg Llandrillo’s Rhyl campus, was presented with the accolade at the Wales Prince's Trust Awards ceremony in Cardiff.

The Wales Education Award recognises young people who have overcome barriers and developed new skills to improve their future prospects through re-engagement in education.

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Rhys’ journey with The Prince’s Trust began on the Achieve programme after he was referred to Milestones Academy, a pupil referral unit that supports young people struggling with school.

The programme saw Rhys interacting with others during team-building activities, learning new skills in autism awareness while being pushed out his comfort zone.

It gave Rhys the desire to push his boundaries as he completed his GCSEs, BTEC and Prince’s Trust certificate.

He is now working towards his ambition of joining the police force.

Rhys said: “The Prince’s Trust has helped me by allowing me the freedom to express myself and explore opportunities while developing my confidence and self-esteem.

"Milestones especially has been a pinnacle turning point for me, allowing me to reintroduce myself into social interactions and build the confidence that will carry me into my future career.

 “I’ve been able to do more than I can imagine with the correct support. I never thought I’d be this determined to do anything in life – I value learning now more than ever and I understand the importance of it.

“I think really seeing the impact that The Prince’s Trust has on the community and wanting to also be that difference really helped me make the decision of wanting to be a police officer.

“I’d like to give back what I’ve received.”

Rhys’ personal tutor, Cara Baker, added: “Rhys is excelling in all areas of his work. He has a brilliant attitude to learning, along with a great work ethic.

“Rhys is developing skills that will support a fantastic career as a police officer which I am excited to see develop.”