Following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, the Haberdashers’ Company sought to find a way to acknowledge and commemorate the Queen’s remarkable seventy-year reign; a reign that was defined by selfless and loyal service, by tolerance and kindness.

“I often draw strength from meeting ordinary people doing extraordinary things: volunteers, carers, community organisers and good neighbours; unsung heroes whose quiet dedication makes them special. They are an inspiration to those who know them”. Queen Elizabeth II, Christmas Message 2016

This led to the creation of The Haberdashers’ Queen Elizabeth II Citizenship Award. The award is not for a measurable achievement such as academic, sporting or musical accomplishments. Rather, the award is about seeking out those whose achievements go largely unnoticed and unacknowledged.

The thirteen Haberdashers’ secondary schools were asked to select one student from Year 13 who demonstrated the characteristics of tolerance, kindness, selfless service, loyalty, integrity and respect.

The award has a monetary value of £400 to be split between the pupil (£150) and a charity of their choice (£250). At the invitation of the Master and Wardens of the Company, the awardees came to the Hall by way of recognition and celebration. The Master, Rupert Elliott, said: “These young people are nothing less than role models for others in their schools and their communities and we are delighted to be able to celebrate them with this Award. We hope it will inspire others to follow in their footsteps.”

Congratulations to Jake Horton from Haberdashers’ Adams who was one of the inaugural awardees. Jake chose to donate the money to The Hub in Newport.