Declan, a Year 8 student from Hessle High School, has quickly become a standout participant across a range of Tigers Trust programmes.
From the moment he joined a Social Action initiative at the start of the academic year, his enthusiasm, creativity, and teamwork immediately impressed staff.
What sets Declan apart most is his willingness to step outside his comfort zone. This became clear early on when the social action group was invited to the Tigers Trust Arena for an evening session with PAC (Peer Action Collective) researchers to explore local community issues.
Declan was the only student from his school to attend, demonstrating remarkable independence and courage.
Despite arriving without peers, he fully engaged in discussions with Humberside Police on topics such as peer pressure, positive role models, and creating safer spaces for young people. His thoughtful contributions aligned closely with the school’s social action priorities and reflected impressive maturity.
Declan described the event as “a really good evening,” where he gained valuable knowledge and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Shortly afterwards, he was selected as one of the new Tigers Trust Student Ambassadors, a role he was thrilled to accept, especially as a proud Hull City fan.
His confidence continued to shine during the December ambassadors’ meeting, where he worked collaboratively with students from other secondary schools on the Trust’s Premier League Inspires programme and took part in team‑building activities.
Declan’s commitment was further demonstrated during the Humberside Police Night Challenge, a demanding 12‑mile overnight walk involving problem‑solving activities working alongside a range of community partners. He showed resilience, positivity, and strong encouragement toward others, reinforcing his growing reputation as a young leader.
According to his mum, Gemma, Declan’s confidence has “grown massively,” and the opportunity to work alongside diverse groups and agencies has been invaluable. Declan himself reflects proudly on his journey, recognising the wide range of opportunities, responsibilities, and challenges he has embraced.
Through the Trust, Declan has gained not only new skills and friendships but also a newfound confidence that will support him long into the future.
The Tigers Trust looks forward to watching him continue to thrive while doing his school proud!
Find out more about the Trust’s secondary school work here
(Declan, 3rd from left)
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