Teenager battles illness and takes High School Pupil of the Year Award

The Sir Thomas Boteler CE High School pupil underwent brain surgery earlier this year and just two days later he was revising for his upcoming exams from his hospital bed.

It’s no surprise that Joe is our High School Pupil of the Year.

Thirteen outstanding winners have been honoured as part of this year’s Warrington Guardian Education Awards.

The annual awards aim to celebrate schools, nurseries and colleges across the town, championing pupils and students, teachers and assistants, and classes and teams.

READ MORE:

All the worthy winners of the Warrington Guardian Education Awards

In November last year, Joe collapsed at school and was paralysed down one side of his body.

Following an MRI scan, Joe was told he has hydrocephalus – fluid on the brain – and a genetic neurological condition called Dandy Syndrome.

Joe’s mum Sarah, who nominated him for the award, said: “Joe is absolutely amazing and the most inspirational boy I know.

“He has had his entire life turned upside down after receiving his devastating diagnosis but his bravery and determination has been truly amazing.

“Joe has always been very academic and he wanted to return to school but sadly he suffered another collapse which resulted in brain surgery.

“Instead of giving up, Joe has worked so hard for his GCSEs receiving home tutoring under medical grounds and he has pushed himself to the limit.

“At no point has he given up - the resilience he has shown over the past six months is remarkable and he is an inspiration to everyone he meets.”

High School Pupil of the Year Joe Dobson with Ben Large, High School Teacher of the Year

Joe was determined to succeed in his GCSEs despite the challenges he has faced over the past six months despite being scared and feeling overwhelmed.

He said: “I never lost focus and tried my best and had so much support and encouragement from all my teachers.

“I’d like to work in computer games design or animation or maybe astrophysics.”

Headteacher Bev Scott-Heron said: “Joe is one of the most incredible young people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.

“Joe has been through so much after becoming unwell resulting in him having brain surgery.

WATCH JOE RECEIVE HIS AWARD:

“Despite the myriad of obstacles in his way Joe has overcome every one of them with determination, courage and has demonstrated a resilience I never thought possible.

“He has a wonderful relationship with the staff and they have worked with him to help him sit his GCSE examinations at home.

“Joe has already succeeded in life in our eyes and although he may not realise it, the young man he is today is testimony to his positivity and the power of endurance.

“We could all learn a life lesson from him and we are beyond proud of his achievements.”

She added: “Thank you Joe for being an outstanding student who represents our school positively.

“Despite difficult circumstances, the amount of resilience and commitment you have shown towards learning over the recent months is incredible.

“You are an inspiration and I am very proud of you.

“You are a great role model for the school and you always embrace our high expectations, high aspirations and high standards in everything you do.

“We are very lucky to have you at Sir Thomas Boteler CE High School.”