Congratulations to Precious Oyelade who won the Lambeth Regional Final of the Jack Petchey 'Speak Out Challenge', the world's largest youth public speaking competition, and to Tosin Olukoga, who came second against stiff competition. Visit www.speakoutchallenge.com and follow the links for videos and photos to watch their speeches!

Precious receiving her prize

Tosin receiving her prize

Established in 1999, The Jack Petchey Foundation gives grants to programmes and projects that benefit young people aged 11-25. The Foundation is eager to help young people take advantage of opportunities and play a full part in society. The major focus is the Achievement Award Scheme. The Foundation focuses on London and Essex. Since it has been established the Foundation has awarded grants totalling over £50million.

The Achievement Award Scheme aims to enable schools, colleges and youth organisations to recognise, reward and celebrate the achievements of their young people. Jack Petchey wants young people to raise their aspirations, believe in themselves and make a contribution to their society.

Achievement Awards are designed to recognise a wide range of achievement, it is not just about being clever, or gifted, but about putting the effort in and doing your best. The scheme works well because young people themselves are involved in nominating and selecting the winners.

In addition to the Achievement Awards, the Young People may choose to nominate an adult leader for an annual Leader Award. This is a positive way to publicly recognise the efforts of adults who have made a significant contribution to young people.

Congratulations to Rochelle Carrington in Year 8, Imani Augustus in Year 9, Jovonique Eka in Year 10, Ruth Jones in Year 11 and Obayed Ahmid in the Sixth Form, who were elected to receive the Achievement Award by their peers. Nominations and elections will take place soon for Year 7.

For more information go to www.jackpetcheyfoundation.org.uk