Duchy College Student Wins First-Ever National Saffie’s Smile Award

Published On: 23 October 2024Last Updated: 23 October 2024By CornishStuff

Photo: Ruby Reid from Duchy College Stoke Climsland recognised for her bravery and dedication to helping others)

Ruby Reid, a Level 2 Animal Care student at Duchy College Stoke Climsland, has been honoured as the first-ever recipient of the national “Saffie’s Smile Award.” This prestigious award, established by The Sun, recognises children aged 16 and under who have shown remarkable character and exceptional kindness in supporting others.

Recognised for Bravery and Compassion

Ruby’s award celebrates her incredible bravery in overcoming adversity and her commitment to helping those around her. The award was created by the Roussos family in memory of their daughter, Saffie, who was the youngest victim of the Manchester Arena terror attack. Ruby was surprised with the award at Longleat Safari Park in Wiltshire last month, where she was fulfilling her lifelong dream of feeding giraffes.

“I just can’t believe I was even nominated, let alone won. Mum says I am special but I don’t think I am. I’m just a normal teenager,” Ruby said.

Photo: Ruby Reid from Cornwall feeding giraffes at Longleat Credit Stewart Williams

A Trip of a Lifetime

Alongside winning the award, Ruby and her family were given a trip to New York City, the location where the “Saffie’s Smile Award” was launched by The Sun earlier this year. Ruby was thrilled by the surprise, saying, “It was such a special surprise and such a shock. Things like this don’t happen to me, it’s both surreal and absolutely brilliant. I cannot believe I’m going to New York. Andrew and Lisa Roussos have been so warm and wonderful to me, I’ll never, ever be able to thank them enough for picking me as their winner. It means more than I could ever put into words.”

Bright Future at Duchy College

As Ruby begins her journey at Duchy College, she is already inspiring others with her dedication, resilience, and compassion. She is looking forward to working with mammals, fish, or bugs in the future, while continuing her specialised training at the college.

Hannah James, study programme manager for animal science at Duchy College Stoke Climsland, said, “We are incredibly proud of Ruby. Her story is truly moving, and she embodies the very qualities that the Saffie’s Smile Award seeks to recognise. She loves working with animals, and we look forward to seeing where her course takes her.”

About Duchy College

Duchy College, part of The Cornwall College Group (TCCG), focuses on courses for the rural economy, health and wellbeing, and business sectors. With campuses at Stoke Climsland and Rosewarne, the college offers a wide range of academic and vocational training across Cornwall and Devon.

For more information on Duchy College’s wide range of courses, visit duchy.ac.uk.