Brave Worksop student has been honoured at Courage Awards

Claire O’Shea, 17, of Lincoln Street, Worksop, joined 13 other young people from schools, colleges and charities in being commended at the 25th Courage Awards, staged by the Rotary Club of Mansfield.

Claire, who attends West Nottinghamshire College, was nominated by early years tutor and co-ordinator Leslye Henstock for being “a true inspiration to her tutors, support workers and fellow students” despite suffering from severe visual impairments.

Claire has rare conditions has Aniridia, which means the iris is missing or incomplete, and Nystagmus, which affects her focus and judgement of speed and distance but in spite of this, she is enthusiastic about her education and aspires to a career supporting children with similar needs.

She successfully completed her work placement at a day nursery and also does much for charity, having boosted funds for Children in Need through cake sales and raised money for homeless charities by completing a 5k sponsored walk. Her ambition is to embark on a sponsored sky-dive to raise cash for guide dog charities.

Leslye Henstock said: “Claire is a very determined young woman who willingly and enthusiastically completes all aspects of her academic and practical training with commitment and dedication. Her achievements are outstanding, despite her impaired vision. She aims for the highest grades at all times, and rarely complains.

“She’s constantly thinking about what she can do to help other people. Claire is a super role model for children and a wonderful young adult, as well as a fantastic student.”