One of six shortlisted local primary schools is set to land a £25,000 grant for a new eco-friendly outdoor learning space, courtesy of a competition run by Manchester Airport’s Community Trust Fund.
Primary schools within a 10-mile radius of the airport – an area which covers parts of Trafford, Manchester, Stockport, Tameside and Cheshire – were invited to submit a proposal for outlining how they would spend the funds on an ‘eco-garden’, designed to act as a learning aid and to promote environmental awareness among pupils.
A total of 22 schools applied, with pupils producing a video explaining their plans, and these were whittled down to six finalists;
Cheadle Catholic Infant & Junior School, Stockport
Newall Green Primary School, Wythenshawe
Brooklands Primary School, Sale
Bexton Primary School, Knutsford
Peover Superior Endowed Primary School, Knutsford
Lum Head Primary School, Gatley
These schools have now been invited to a Grand Final event under the wings of the Concorde, at the airport’s Runway Visitor Park, on Tuesday 6 December. They will be asked to prepare a pitch to the trustees, and are encouraged to be creative with their proposals.
Pupils will also get the chance to rehearse their pitch during a visit from a mentor, who will provide feedback on the plans and guidance to the pupils on presentation techniques.
Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director at Manchester Airport, said: “I’d like to congratulate our six finalists but also thank each and every school that took the time to craft and submit an application, whether they have ultimately made the shortlist or not.
“We were blown away by the ingenuity, creativity and passion for the environment on display from young people across the region. Each and every one did tremendously well with their applications, and I know our judges had a tough time picking out six finalists.
“Those finalists are now one step away from securing a sizeable pot of funding, to produce an outdoor learning space that will have a legacy for years to come. We look forward to welcoming them to our Runway Visitor Park next month and I’m sure choosing a winner will prove even tougher.”
Mike Kane MP added: “Congratulations to the six shortlisted schools that are through to the final of Manchester Airport’s 25th anniversary Community Trust Fund competition.
“It is great to hear that so many local children have had the opportunity to put their ideas forward to improve their school grounds. The environment and biodiversity is incredibly important and it is good to see it front and centre of Manchester Airport’s community initiative.”
