St Margaret Mary’s and Alt Bridge have both been nominated for an award at this year’s prestigious Educate Awards.
The awards showcase the work of schools and colleges which are delivering outstanding education and helping students achieve their full potential. With over 21 categories, the shortlist recognises inspiring teachers, dedicated support staff and strategic leadership teams.
St Margaret Mary’s Catholic Junior School has been nominated for the Community Partnership Award for its work in bringing the community together and supporting both pupils and parents following the tragic death of Olivia Pratt Korbel.
Over the past year, the school has organised a series of community events and celebrations to ensure that Olivia is remembered and ensure that Olivia’s short life is an enduring force of good and of change.
Alt Bridge, a specialist school which caters for students aged 11-19 with Education, Health and Care Plans, has been nominated for its role in the Sanctuary and Unity through Song Project which took the school to the main stage during Eurovision 2023.
During the project, pupils learnt about Ukrainian and Liverpool music. They then used this to engage in songwriting and the development of a song framework, with support from Hope University. Pupils also had the opportunity to experience recording a song, making a video and finally performing live to an audience.
Cllr Margaret Harvey, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said:
“I am absolutely delighted that both St Margaret Mary’s and Alt Bridge have been recognised with award nominations at this year’s Educate Award.
“Both schools have worked tirelessly throughout the year and I wish them the best of luck for the award ceremony.”
Natalie Menagh, Headteacher at Alt Bridge, said:
“This project has opened up so many opportunities for our students. From enabling them to perform and develop links with another specialist school to attending a university campus and engaging with a university to produce a song. The confidence our students have developed through this project has been huge.”
Rebecca Wilkinson, Headteacher at St Margaret Mary’s Catholic Junior School:
“Since the tragic events of Olivia’s passing, we have worked hard to try to heal the deep wounds felt by everyone and bring the community together. Our mission has been to organise a series of community events and celebrations to ensure that the gorgeous little girl who was such a vibrant part of our school will be remembered forever by all who knew and loved her.”
The 2023 awards ceremony is set to take place at the awe-inspiring Liverpool Cathedral on Friday 17th November 2023.