University News Last updated 19 May 2015
A student from the School of Education has been awarded a flagship prize at the University's Extra Mile Awards for her work in setting up a children's charity.
Sophie Chapman, who studies BA (Hons) Primary Education, was named as the student winner of the Vice-Chancellor and Students' Union President's Award at the ceremony on 13 May 2015.
The Extra Mile Awards is a project run in partnership by the University and the Students’ Union to celebrate the achievements of the best students and staff.
Sophie is one of the founding members of a Birmingham-based charity which, since 2012, has helped to raise over £15,000 a year for disadvantaged children in the city, helping to give them access to much needed opportunities.
In addition, she works alongside children with special educational needs as a volunteer swimming coach, as well as being a part-time member of staff and a full-time student.
The money Sophie raises is used to fund three non-residential respite holidays for under-privileged children in the city. The breaks allow these children to have access to activities and opportunities which they normally wouldn't have access to.
One of her nominators writes: "Sophie donates an incredible amount of her time for charity projects for no reward or recognition. She is an enthusiastic and energetic volunteer who works tirelessly and with great passion to raise money for young people in Birmingham.
"She is the first student I think of when I think of helping the community, she is a shining light for the University and does a fantastic job of representing BCU in Birmingham."