Bishop Burton student’s prestigious award for Covid volunteer work

VOLUNTEER: Kieran Woodall

By Rick Lyon

A Bishop Burton College student is celebrating after receiving a national award for his services as a Covid vaccination volunteer during the pandemic.

Kieran Woodall was nominated for the prestigious Diana Award after volunteering over 800 hours in support of the national Covid vaccination programme – the most hours volunteered by anyone aged under 18 in the country.  

The Diana Award was established in 1999 to acknowledge the late Princess Diana’s belief that young people have the power to change the world. It recognises the social action and humanitarian work of young people aged nine to 25.

Kieran was recognised for the positive impact of his volunteering in the recovery areas of vaccination centres, enabling tens of thousands of people to have their jabs in a safe and secure environment.

He said “I wanted to help make the area where I live as safe a place as possible for everyone, especially for vulnerable and elderly people within the community.” 

Kieran, who recently completed a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Public Services at Bishop Burton College, has been an active member of St John Ambulance since he was aged just five.

He has progressed through the ranks and is now a Sergeant in the Cadets, supporting younger members to learn about first aid. 

WINNER: Kieran Woodall is an active member of St John Ambulance

He is also trained as a “buddy”, which means he can look after and mentor new young people and adults in the organisation. Kieran, from Driffield, intends to progress to become an NHS Cadet once he turns 18.  

He said: “I’m really excited to receive this award and I’m very proud to have helped so many people during the Covid pandemic.

“The whole experience helped me grow as a person, develop my skills as a member of St John Ambulance and supported my course at college. I also know that I want to continue to help people in the future by joining the police.” 

It is not the first time Kieran has been recognised for his voluntary work, having previously received a Young Achievers Award.

He was selected as one of only three young people to meet the Countess of Wessex, who he spoke to about his volunteering for the Covid vaccination programme and what young people can bring to St John Ambulance. 

Joanne Exley, Kieran’s Course Manager at Bishop Burton, near Beverley, said: “We couldn’t be prouder of all Kieran has achieved. His commitment and dedication to supporting and helping his community is amazing and he’s an absolute credit to the college. 

“He’s a very worthy recipient of this fantastic accolade.”