Cadet Corporal Jack Ross (16), from Tain Detachment, was awarded Secondary School Pupil of the Year in the annual Highland Heroes Award Ceremony that took place at the Macdonald Drumossie Hotel, Inverness on Saturday 16 March.
The Highland Heroes Awards celebrates remarkable individuals and organisations who selflessly contribute to their communities. The Secondary Pupil of the Year Category recognises outstanding secondary school students who have achieved something exceptional in education, sports, or by helping others at school. These young heroes may have overcome challenging circumstances or obstacles to make a positive impact.
Jack was put forward for the award for his volunteering within the community, that began at 11 years old. As well as spending his time at cadets he volunteers at the Tain Youth Café and is on the local Youth Committee, as well as a lifeguard.
Cpl Ross has dyslexia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia, but does not let this affect him and uses it to his advantage by sharing his experiences with others to help other people who may have similar difficulties. Asked about this after picking up his award he told the Inverness Courier: "I got diagnosed with dyslexia and all the rest – I can't remember them all! – when I was very young it felt like it was the end. I had teachers and family members who helped me all the way through and told me that it wasn't stopping and it was something to be proud of. Everyone has described it as a superpower. It's never been a setback."
Jack was shortlisted for the award earlier in the year to a final list of three nominees, which was put out to a public vote for members of the public to name the winner of this year’s category. Jack's award was presented to him by Colin Marr of Developing the Young Workforce (DWY) Inverness who sponsored the award.
