Two students from Teign School are among the UK’s most inspirational young community champions.

Madeleine Khan and Tegan White were presented with the Inspirational Female Leader award at the UK Youth Sport Trust Young Changemakers Awards in London on Wednesday (November 20).

The awards celebrate young people who have changed their lives and the lives of others through sport over the past year.

Former England Roses Netball Team player Ama Agbeze presented Madeleine and Tegan with the Inspirational Female Leaders award, which recognises young females who are leading the charge to close the gender enjoyment and participation gap in sport.

Madeleine and Tegan were lauded for their exceptional commitment to promoting girls’ participation in sport though the Youth Sport Trust’s Girls Active Programme.

The 17-year-olds have organised a primary school flight and gymnastics festival, run a self-made dance club, and led campaigns to improve canteen food and boost active lifestyles at Teign School.

Their efforts have inspired students across the school, including students with additional needs, and shown that sport and leadership are accessible to everyone, regardless of background and ability.

‘The most rewarding part about doing all this is seeing the confidence of the students grow,’ said Tegan. ‘It’s good to see that we can build friendships and confidence in them,’ she added.

‘I think it’s very important that everyone’s given the same opportunity to enjoy being active and to not feel nervous or judged,’ added Madeleine.

Teachers at Teign School described Madeleine and Tegan as inspirational, nurturing and caring. ‘Not only have they encouraged students to take part in dance, but they’ve actually shown them some life skills,’ said one teacher.

The Youth Sports Trust’s Girls Active Campaign is aimed at helping girls to tackle any barriers that might be stopping them from taking part in PE and sport by developing positive role models, like Madeleine and Tegan.