This year, the programme, supported by Co-op, brought together students from every academy, including, for the first time, Co-op Academy Southfield in Bradford, to design and execute youth-led social action projects unique to their schools.

Over a 12-week period, students focused on critical issues such as sustainability, mental health and wellbeing, and tackling food poverty. Through this hands-on experience, they not only contributed to their communities but also developed essential skills, particularly in public speaking and presentation.

The programme culminated in July with a grand final at Angel Square, where students from all participating academies pitched their projects to a panel of judges. As with previous finals, the standard was extremely high leaving judges with a difficult decision.

Ultimately, it was Co-op Academy North Manchester who emerged as the winner of Envision 2024. 

Reflecting on the programme, Jo Sykes, Director of CEIAG at Co-op Academies Trust, said: 

“Huge thanks to all members of staff that led the programme in their academy and all judges that volunteered their time.

“I am sure that many of the students involved will go on to develop their projects and have the confidence to be actively involved in other social action projects both in the academy and the local community in the future.”

Envision, a UK-based charity, empowers young people from less-advantaged backgrounds to develop skills through their own social action campaigns. 

Through tackling social issues affecting their own communities, our students were able to shine a light on important issues, whilst building their confidence. Envision has worked with the Co-op for several years now and we were delighted our students were able to take part for a fifth year. 

Jo Clark, Director of Programmes and Impact at Envision, expressed her admiration for the students, stating, “We are always blown away by the creativity and determination that the teams at Co-op Academies Trust show at their launch events, and this year was no exception! 

“From establishing new recycling schemes to raising awareness of the negative impacts of vaping, the teams all walked away with such innovative ideas for how to make a positive change in their academies."