In association with Punchline-Gloucester.com
The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Awards are back for another year, celebrating the young people, organisations and projects that are making a real difference for children, families and communities in Cheltenham.
This uplifting celebration will take place on Thursday 5 February 2026 at Cheltenham Town Hall, hosted by venue sponsor The Cheltenham Trust and in association with Punchline-Gloucester.com.
#YouthVoice – Listening to and acting on children and young people’s views.
#ClosingTheGap – Reducing inequalities in educational achievement.
#EmpoweringParents – Recognising the importance of working in partnership with parents and carers.
#StayingSafe – Helping to keep children and young people safe online or in the community.
Plus, five returning categories from previous NCLB Awards:
#GoodMentalHealth – Helping children and young people or families to improve their mental health.
#FunandFullfillment – Helping children and young people find their strengths and passions.
#BusinessesForChange – Celebrating local businesses that support children and young people.
#InclusionWorks – Unlocking the potential of all our children and young people.
#FutureLeaders – Giving children and young people the opportunities to become leaders.
This year for the first time there will be awards especially for young people that have themselves made a difference in their local area, school or by supporting others. Young people who meet the criteria will receive a #CommunityChangemaker award. Examples might include volunteering in the community, taking action about our changing climate, promoting mental health awareness, advocating for social justice and equity, being a young leader, or taking a courageous step forward.
“Every day, countless organisations across Cheltenham work tirelessly to support children, young people and their families. I’m proud that the NCLB Awards continue to shine a light on their dedication and positive impact on young people’s lives. In challenging times like these, it’s more important than ever to pause and celebrate the commitment of those making a real difference.
“It is great to see the introduction of new award categories this year that reflect key issues facing our town in support of children and young people and I’m especially delighted with the launch of our young people changemaker awards, to specifically celebrate their fabulous achievements in our communities.
“I can’t wait to read the inspiring nominations and celebrate with everyone in February 2026.
“A heartfelt thank you to The Cheltenham Trust and Punchline-Gloucester.com for their continued and generous support of our extremely important NCLB awards.”
– Cllr Victoria Atherstone, cabinet member for safety and communities
“We are proud to support the No Child Left Behind Awards once more. As editor and owner of Punchline-Gloucester.com, I’m fortunate enough to be invited to many different places and events throughout the year and I have to admit this is one of my favourites.
“To see all the kids standing on stage and happily singing their hearts out makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. It’s wonderful to see them given an opportunity to shine.”
– Mark Owen, editor and owner of Punchline-Gloucester.com
Award nominations must be made by Sunday, 9 November 2025. Visit here to nominate an organisation, and visit here to nominate a young person you work with.
Find out more about the NCLB Awards 2025 and make an award nomination.
For press enquiries contact: communications by email at communications@cheltenham.gov.uk or telephone 01242 264231.
To sponsor NCLB award categories contact Beth at Punchline-Gloucester.com, beth@moosemarketingandpr.co.uk.
