FIVE young people were highly praised last week for making “huge progress” on their way to gaining a nationally recognised qualification in sports leadership.

Proud, the record by soul singer Heather Small with its line “What have you done today to make you feel proud”, was played when they were presented with their certificates at the Boathouse in Wisbech.

They had earned them for completing a 10-week Respect and Health programme, run by Verity Allen and Sam Darlow from Fenland District Council’s sports development team. It incorporated the Sports Leaders UK Award (Level 1).

The five youngsters attending the presentation were Anthony Warwick, Tyler Dawes, Miles Willcox, Naomi Chambers and Nicole May. Courtney Long, who also gained the qualification, was unable to attend.

They are all pupils at the Continuum school in Wisbech, a specialist school for people with behavioural issues.

The words from Proud were echoed by FDC’s Verity Allen. She said: “The course challenged and pushed you to act outside your comfort zone. You’ve made huge progress and Sam and I are really proud of what you’ve achieved.”

The certificates were presented by Councillor Ralph Butcher, FDC’s portfolio holder responsible for health and wellbeing.

He said: “I’m really pleased with everything I’ve seen and heard about this programme. It has given these young people a chance to achieve something important who wouldn’t otherwise get that chance. That was down to their efforts and the dedication and commitment of our staff, who do a fantastic job.”

Speaking for the whole group, Nicole May said: “We’ve really enjoyed the course – it was great. On behalf of all of us, thank you.”

The Respect and Health programme is a police-funded project organised by FDC’s sports development team in conjunction with the Safer Fenland team. Aimed at young people who have been involved in some form of anti-social behaviour, it seeks to boost their confidence and self-esteem and build communication and leadership skills.