Lipson Co-operative Academy is celebrating an outstanding achievement as Sixth Form student Eri Olugbeminiyi has been named Plymouth’s ‘Student of the Year’ at the 2025 Plymouth Youth Awards.

Held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel and sponsored by Plymouth City Council, in partnership with YMCA Plymouth and Discovery College, the awards recognise inspirational young people aged under 21 who have made a significant difference in their communities, overcome adversity, and demonstrated remarkable personal achievement.

Eri, who is 16, arrived in the UK just four months before sitting his GCSEs, a challenge he met with courage and determination. He went on to achieve top grades, including grade 9s in Double Science and Religious Studies, and 8s in Maths and English. Now studying A Levels in Chemistry, Biology, and Maths, Eri aspires to become a doctor.

Beyond the classroom, Eri has made a lasting impact at Lipson Co-operative Academy, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust. He founded a student mentoring group to support Year 11 students, initially running the programme alone. It has since expanded to support up to 20 students, with other Sixth Formers now joining the effort. He also volunteers at Age UK, offering his time to support elderly members of the community.

Mr Martin Brook, Headteacher at Lipson Co-operative Academy said:

"Eri is an exceptional young man. His journey is nothing short of inspiring, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of his resilience, generosity, and leadership. He is not only excelling academically but also shaping a culture of kindness and service within our school."

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

"Eri embodies everything we stand for as a trust, compassion, courage, and commitment. Everyone at the Ted Wragg Trust is incredibly proud of him. His academic success is remarkable, but it’s his selflessness, leadership, and drive to uplift others that truly set him apart.”