Inspirational teenager’s Passport Pride success

Anti-bullying ambassador, triathlon athlete and big band musician, Ross Landon truly is an inspirational teenager.

The 17-year-old, who is completing A-levels at Teesdale School, Barnard Castle, was among those who earned special recognition during Teesside University’s Passport Pride Awards.

Now in their 11th year, the Passport Pride Awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of students and institutions involved in the University’s Passport scheme, which aims to encourage students’ progress from further education into higher education.

Ross, from Cotherstone, near Barnard Castle, drew on personal experience when he first got involved in a group which offers a point of contact for younger children seeking support on issues such as bullying or feeling isolated.

He said, 'I joined the anti-bullying group when I was 13 and two years later I took over running the group. I’m involved in presentations to encourage younger children to talk to someone if they feel they’re being bullied and I provide feedback to teachers and seek advice on bigger issues.'

A Diana award His individual input in the group has earned national recognition for both him and the group, with each receiving a Diana Award set up in memory of Princess Diana. Ross is also a keen triathlon athlete, qualifying for the World Championships with the GB team in Budapest earlier this month. He will also compete in Spain in the European Championships in June next year. Currently studying music, maths and physics, Ross is considering a career in engineering. His interest in engineering was ignited while choosing a new cycle for triathlon competitions. He explained: 'I started thinking about how the bikes are engineered to perform at the highest standard.' Ross spends two hours triathlon training each night, along with three hours in band practice each week. He plays lead trombone with the Durham County Big Band, performing locally and also all over Europe. He said of Teesside University: 'It’s a really friendly campus, with a lot going on. I enjoyed being in the lecture theatres and found everything really easy to find.'

John Trevett, Head of Sixth Form at Teesdale School, who was also at the awards, said: “I felt humbled by the achievements, dedication and selflessness of young people. It is great that Teesside University is prepared to dedicate time, effort and resources to work with local organisation to formally recognise the achievements of an age group which so often gets bad press.”

Outstanding Passport Institution The Passport Pride Awards also celebrate the University’s partnership with institutions in the region in supporting students progressing to higher education. City of Sunderland College was named Outstanding Passport Institution of the Year while Harrogate High School was named Passport Newcomer of the Year. Lynn Leary from Stockton Sixth Form College was awarded Outstanding Individual in a Passport Institution.

Karen Wheatley, Recruitment Co-ordinator, North Yorkshire, said: 'Each year I am astounded by our Passport Pride nominees in terms of their academic ability and the extra lengths they have gone to better themselves and help others. They really are an inspiration.'

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