The project has been led by the school’s Pupil Parliament, who began by discussing what kind of outdoor space would best support their school community. Pupils carefully shared ideas, explored what sustainability could look like in practice, and produced hand-drawn designs to capture their vision.

In a brilliant example of collaboration across the Trust, the pupils then partnered with older students from Co-op Academy Bebington, who worked with them to transform their drawings into a detailed digital design. This partnership has helped pupils see how creative ideas can be developed using professional skills and teamwork.

With the garden area now measured and plans in place, the next stage will see the Pupil Parliament working alongside the Communities Team and the Academy’s new Community Pioneer to raise funds, cost materials and organise resources. Once ready, volunteers from across the community will come together to help turn the design into reality.

The project has also been supported locally by the Co-op Darley Drive store in West Derby, Liverpool. Store Manager Francesca Farrell visited the academy to view the proposed garden site and discuss the pupils’ vision for the space. Conversations focused on how store colleagues could volunteer their time to help bring the garden to life, highlighting a great example of Co-op stores and academies working closely together.

The garden space not only enhances the school environment but also gives pupils valuable experience in leadership, collaboration and community engagement. It is a powerful example of young people shaping their surroundings and working together to make a lasting, positive difference.