A GROUP of teenagers have been awarded certificates for completing a special sports project designed to reignite their interest in education.

Eleven young people from Ellesmere Port and Neston, aged 15-16, had their hard work acknowledged during a presentation at the EPIC Leisure Centre.

Participants were referred from Ellesmere Port Specialist School of Performing Arts, Cheshire Oaks High, Capenhurst Specialist School and the Education Support Team.

They were all involved in the planning and development of the programme, which is set up to engage those who are at risk of exclusion from mainstream education.

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s culture and recreation executive member Richard Short said: “I would like to offer my congratulations to the eleven young people involved. They have worked hard and enjoyed the alternative education programme on offer.”

Michelle Aspden, the council’s youth sport development officer, added: “Special thanks need to be given to the support staff who attended the sessions and supported the young people through their studies.

“All the young people, families, agencies and schools should be exceptionally proud of the work that has taken place over the past academic year. The young people have not only received qualifications but also developed their personal and social skills.”

Ten students achieved their 60 hours, Sport and Fitness short course ASDAN accreditation.

They also received their Duke of Edinburgh sectional awards for Physical and Skill, as well as their emergency first aid certificate.

Dom Ellis, a Year 11 student at Cheshire Oaks High School was awarded his Level One Sports Leaders UK award, along with his Duke of Edinburgh, V accreditation and Emergency First Aid Award.