Acton Students Pitch And Win

Grant for memorial garden for late Headteacher

Students at Acton High School pitched for and won a £1,000 grant to create a memorial garden for late Headteacher, Mandy Golding, as well as an eco-friendly allotment garden.

Pupils from Years 7 to 10 at Acton High School worked together to research, prepare and deliver a convincing presentation to pitch for the £1,000 grant from City Pitch, part of the Mayor’s Fund for London on Thursday 3rd July 2014.

The £1,000 grant will be used to create a memorial garden at the front of the school for the late Headteacher, Mandy Golding. The students plan to grow pink flowers as pink was her favourite colour.

The students also proposed to use an area of land in the back playground as an eco-allotment where they will be able to grow herbs and vegetables to use for various community activities including making soup for the elderly in our local area. There will also be an eco-friendly greenhouse and recycled tyres in which to grow food all year round.

Year 10 student, Amber Thomas-Lorainey, who was part of the bidding process, said:

''Going to City Hall and giving the presentation was very rewarding because I felt I was making a difference to the school and I had the courage to speak in front of directors and representatives from other schools. My favourite part was paying respects to our late Headteacher, Ms Golding, as the money we received will go towards the memorial garden for her.”

Students had researched the costs and put together graphic images of their vision for the garden to create a convincing case to be awarded the full amount for their project.

Headteacher, Dr. Andy Sievewright, said:

''We’re delighted that our students were able to secure this funding for such a worthy project. Their success shows their commitment and enthusiasm. We look forward to enjoying the results!''

City Pitch is an opportunity from the Mayor’s Fund for London to empower pupils to make a difference in their local community as well as develop their project management and presentation skills. The project gives young Londoners the opportunity to present their own community project proposals to peers and a panel of experts in a high profile event held in City Hall, home of the Mayor of London.

15th July 2014