A TEENAGER from Denbighshire has been named as the winner of an award from The Prince’s Trust after struggling to attend school.

Felix, 14, scooped the Delta Air Lines Breakthrough prize, recognising a young person who has overcome personal barriers to take their first steps towards achieving their goals.

This challenge was fuelled by severe anxiety, leading to health complications.

Even speaking about school triggered Felix’s symptoms, only feeling safe at home.

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Felix signed up for Achieve with Milestones Academy, a Prince’s Trust programme designed to support young people facing barriers to education.

As Felix was no longer able to access traditional education due to his own obstacles, the academy was suggested to him instead.

Through this, Felix discovered his new passion for the little things in life, like gardening.

Felix said: “I struggled in school, and I found myself having a very hard time speaking to new people.

“The thought of going outside was extremely daunting and so the thought of leaving home left me feeling completely overwhelmed.

“I battled with this for some time and didn’t think it would ever improve.”

Taking it upon himself to get involved with a garden project at the academy, Felix played an important part in the planning and execution of the garden including design work and garden structures.

Connecting and building relationships with his teachers and mentors has had a positive impact on his attendance, which once seemed impossible.

Felix is now in a place where he attends the academy four to five times a week.

He added: “I would like other young people to know that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

“I’ve been asked what the bravest thing I’ve ever done before is, and my answer to that asking for help.

“Help is one of the most difficult things to ask for, but I’m so grateful to Milestones Academy for giving me the opportunity to help and encourage other young people do the same.”

The Prince's Trust is a charity gives young people the skills and confidence to get their lives on track.

Three in four young people helped by The Prince’s Trust move into work, training or education.