The visit was the result of a persuasive letter-writing project by pupils, then in Year 5, as part of their Sustainability topic. The pupils wrote to Andy to raise awareness about the high levels of traffic and other pollutants around the school, asking for changes to improve the local environment.

The pupils' letters were presented to Andy Burnham at an event at Manchester Museum. He was impressed with their arguments and commitment to making a difference and asked to visit the school in person so he could answer the children's questions and learn more about their efforts.
During his visit, representatives from the Eco Club discussed various projects and Andy joined in discussions with students about how young people can help tackle climate change and create a more sustainable future for Manchester.

Headteacher, Jonathan Brown, said:

"It was a real pleasure to welcome Andy Burnham to Co-op Academy Medlock last week. 
“Andy and our Eco Club talked about traffic, green spaces, the Bee Network, and how we can all work together for a safer and cleaner Ardwick. 
“We can't wait to carry on this good work with the School Streets programme where we are hoping to become Bee Network Ambassadors, with Andy also promising to return in summer to see our continued good work.”