The tickets, which were distributed among the Trust’s Young Musician of the Year finalists and other high-achieving students, offered many their first-ever music concert experience.

Braving the wintery weather, on Saturday, 23rd November, students enjoyed performances by artists such as Teddy Swims, Rita Ora and Clean Bandit and even got a behind the scenes peek at the Backstage Club.

Keela Walsh, Academies Business Partner, Community & Member Participation, said: “As a proud sponsor of Co-op Academies Trust, we seek to recognise and reward the excellent efforts of our students.

“We were delighted to recently donate 150 tickets for Hits Radio Live at Co-op Live Arena, Manchester and for many, it was their first-ever live concert experience. Despite the rainy weather, the students arrived buzzing with excitement which was fantastic to witness.
“We’re dedicated to continuing our collaboration with Co-op Live and our suppliers to bring even more inspiring experiences to our students across the Trust, recognising their hard work and determination.”

Year 7 student from Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams, Sebastian Dallimore, made it to the finals of the Trust’s Young Musician of the Year competition, he said: “It was really exciting to win the tickets and to be invited to come to this gig. I’ve never been to a concert before and it was an incredible experience. Thank you Co-op for inviting me!”