What are the Jack Petchey Awards?
The Jack Petchey Foundation was set up by Jack Petchey in 1999. It gives grants to programmes and projects that benefit young people aged 11 – 25, the main aim being to raise the aspirations of young people, to help them to take advantage of opportunities and play a full part in society.
Jack Petchey, now in his eighties, is one of the UK’s most successful businessmen. A Londoner, he came from a fairly disadvantaged background but, despite this, he started work at a very young age and with just £60.00 to his name, created a car sales business. This business and other projects have made him a millionaire several times over. In 2004 he was awarded an OBE and a CBE in 2011, in recognition of his services to young people.
The Jack Petchey Achievement Award aims to enable schools, colleges and youth organisations in London and Essex to recognise, reward and celebrate the achievements of young people. Jack Petchey wants young people to be able to believe in themselves and make a contribution to society. The Awards are given not just for being clever or gifted but about putting in effort and doing your best. The winner is acknowledged publicly and receives a certificate, a badge and £200 to be spent on a school project of the recipient’s choice.