FOXES Academy students, staff and families gathered virtually on Thursday (July 16) to celebrate a successful – and unusual – year of preparing young adults with learning disabilities to be work ready and life ready.

A pre-recorded presentation included well wishing messages from some familiar faces including Great British Bake-Off contestant Briony Williams and celebrity chef Brian Turner. - who said: “The future of our industry is in your hands, so go out there and enjoy yourself.”

This was followed by a series of socially distanced outdoor ceremonies in which the students received their qualifications.

The staff and students have needed to adapt to and overcome many challenges since the announcement of lockdown restrictions, from virtual lessons and topic-based learning to replicating the vocational training normally offered at Foxes Hotel.

Everyone has risen to the occasion and embraced change with all 31 graduates achieving their well-deserved NVQ level 1 in hospitality services.

Foxes principal Emma Cobley said: "I am so incredibly proud of our graduates this year who, either learning at home or at college, have achieved their expected qualifications and remain confident about achieving their aspirations in this new world.”

The top award went to Emily Fox, second was Hannah Start and Naomi Dunlop came third.