The Archbishop of York Dr John Sentamu today is to meet 67 Year 12 Students from Archbishop Holgate’s who are undertaking the Post-16 Young Leaders Award developed by his Youth Trust.

The Archbishop will be talking to the students about his faith and ministry in the Church of God, with a question and answer session to follow.  The Head Boy and Girl will then accompany the Archbishop as he visits the Spiritual Garden.

Speaking ahead of the visit Sam Wilde, teacher at Archbishop Holgate’s said:

“It is fantastic that the Archbishop will be talking to us about his life and his work. It is my hope that his words will inspire and encourage our students to think about what life might hold for them, what paths they might take and the differences that they can make”.

Dan Finn, Director of the Youth Trust, said:

“The Young Leaders Award encourages learners of all ages to develop leadership skills and to serve others around them.  It’s great that Archbishop Holgate’s have chosen to offer the Young Leaders Award as part of its Post-16 education, in addition to the Key Stage 3 Award in school.”

Following the Archbishop’s visit, Callum Dibbert, a student at Archbishop Holgate's said:

"It was great to meet the Archbishop today and to hear personally from him his thoughts, insight and opinions on a whole range of subjects. It was inspiring to listen to him share his story, especially since he is a leader that I look up to".

Speaking about the Archbishop's Young Leaders Award, student Fran Whitehead said:

"I really enjoy the practical opportunities and volunteering included in the Young Leaders Award. Today I was able to help with the school student council and I regularly coach younger students at my local netball club. These opportunities give me a real sense of value, and being able to help others through the Award is really inspiring."