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The Key Awards aren't far away and we can't wait to celebrate with you on the night! Our judging panel worked hard to whittle down our winners and you can see our shortlisted nominees here...

Young people across the North East are leading powerful social action projects through the KEY+ Challenge, creating real change in their communities while developing confidence, leadership and teamwork skills. This Power of Youth Day, we’re celebrating the creativity, passion and determination of young people who are tackling important issues, bringing people together and making a lasting impact through youth-led action.

The Giving Tree Crew at NUCASTLE came together through KEY+ with a shared goal: to create a project that would benefit both their community and the environment. Inspired by a passion for improving local green spaces, the group decided to plant fruit trees that will grow for years to come, leaving their legacy.

KEY+ Group, Around the World, set out to bring their community closer together by celebrating diversity and encouraging understanding between different cultures. Through their project, the group explored countries and traditions from around the world, using food, music, quizzes and creative activities to challenge stereotypes and celebrate diversity.

Terry's Cucumber Dinosaur Squad delivered a KEY+ social action project in South Tyneside focused on improving awareness of mental health support for young people aged 11-25. After recognising that many of them had previously been unaware of available services, the group organised a community event bringing together 20 local support organisations and benefitting 100 community members.

The Four G's took on the KEY+ Challenge by planning an exciting and active Stage 1 project. From researching activities and managing their budget to presenting their ideas to panel, the group developed valuable skills in teamwork, communication, problem-solving and confidence. Read more about their Stage 1 project here!

Meet Jill, a dedicated KEY+ Facilitator at St Thomas More, who has been supporting young people through KEY+ for many years. In this facilitator spotlight, Jill shares her journey from first getting involved in 2010 to retraining as a Key Facilitator in 2025, as well as her favourite projects. Discover how Jill has helped young people build confidence, develop teamwork skills, and realise what they're capable of through KEY+.

The Chaotic Candy Canes came together through the KEY+ Challenge to build confidence, strengthen friendships and improve their wellbeing. Through planning and taking part in activities like pottery painting, the group developed communication, teamwork and resilience while stepping outside their comfort zones. Their journey shows how youth-led projects can help young people feel more confident and connected.

Join the Chat: Growing Up Online is a youth Hack event in Newcastle giving young people aged 16-18 the chance to share their real experiences of the online world. The session will explore what it’s like growing up digital, from social media and online friendships to wellbeing, safety and the pressures young people face every day. Through open discussions, creative activities and group conversations, young people will have the opportunity to speak honestly about what works online, what needs to improve, and what adults and decision-makers need to understand.

At The Key, young voices are at the heart of everything we do – and our Youth Advisory Board (YAB) plays a crucial role in shaping the direction of our work. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on our three newest members: Oliver, Tasmia and Isaac. These young people bring their unique perspectives, experiences, and energy to the board, and we’re excited to share a bit about what motivates them.

Through the KEY+ Challenge, the Esh Winning Warriors took the lead on a project to plan a trip to an escape room in Durham for their whole youth club, learning valuable skills in leadership, communication, teamwork and problem-solving along the way. This inspiring journey shows how young people can take initiative, overcome challenges and make a positive impact.

In this Facilitator Spotlight, Helen reflects on her experience supporting KEY+ groups at Gosforth East Middle School and The Bunker. Having been involved with The Key for many years, Helen shares how the programme brings variety and fresh challenges to her role as a teacher while empowering young people to take the lead on their own projects. Read more about her facilitator experience here!