Coppers Award is a long-standing partnership between the College and Henry Tyndale School, a community special school catering for around 155 pupils who have complex learning difficulties. Our second year student leaders choreograph and produce a production which is then performed by the Henry Tyndale students, alongside their first year buddies from the College in the spring term.

Additionally there is a lunchtime session called Copperlink where students work with Henry Tyndale students to make props for the show and take part in other art activities.

This year I took part in Coppers Award and at first, I was slightly apprehensive as it was dissimilar to anything I had ever done before. However, the whole experience proved to be more valuable than I could ever have imagined. 

We performed ‘Beauty and the Beast’ in the spring term and seeing everyone’s hard work amount to a wonderful show was extremely fulfilling. The performance day itself was filled with fun and laughter. Watching the Henry Tyndale students grow in confidence and seeing their smiles as they danced and performed on stage was a highlight! I have enjoyed Coppers so much that I decided to apply to become a student leader next year. The bond that you build with the Henry Tyndale students and the rewarding nature of the project is such an amazing experience that I get to enjoy for another year. 

I would recommend Coppers Award and Copperlink to anyone who wishes to try something new and make friends whilst doing so. Here’s what my fellow student leaders think of Coppers:

Grace Fordham, first year student commented, “I found Coppers extremely enjoyable and I have made so many friends along the way. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys being part of a team and who wants to improve their confidence through working with new people!”

Emily Bye, first year student said, “I’ve enjoyed Coppers because it has given me life skills such as communication and team work. It is so rewarding to see all the students from Henry Tyndale grow in confidence throughout the year. I am so happy I took part in Coppers and can’t wait to continue this year. If you are wanting to make new friends, gain experience and have a bit of fun, Coppers Award is definitely the thing for you!”

Chloe Rouse, first year student commented, “I really enjoyed Coppers Award because it was something I had never done before and it was a new thing to try. Throughout the experience, I got to watch my Henry Tyndale buddy grow and take part in more things. It was great to see her love of dancing and how confident she was during the show. I would recommend it to new students because it really helps you grow as a person and is an experience you will never forget. It’s honestly the best thing I’ve done at College.”