Both programmes encourage pupils to pick an issue that is important to them and work on tackling this issue within their school and local communities by delivering a bespoke project over several months. Participating pupils got the opportunity to take part in one of three Celebration Days held at the university, or in a virtual event held on Teams, where they engaged their peers in presentations about their projects and discussed the positive impact they have had.
Pupils at Ham Dingle Primary School, for example, led a whole‑school initiative to collect and recycle empty crisp packets, ultimately transforming them into survival blankets for people experiencing homelessness. Through assemblies, surveys, and hands‑on recycling work, the pupils not only reduced waste within their school community but created meaningful social impact.
One of our secondary schools, The Lowry Academy, launched a new literacy initiative – ‘Words of Wisdom’ – in partnership with Dukesgate Academy, a local United Learning primary school. As part of this initiative, Year 8 pupils at The Lowry have been spending time each week reading with Year 3 pupils at Dukesgate. By acting as reading mentors, The Lowry pupils learnt how to communicate more clearly, show patience, offer encouragement and model positive learning habits, whilst also helping to build their younger peers’ confidence and reading skills.
Whilst at the university, pupils also got an insight into the world of higher education and took part in a range of standout activities, including taster lectures and a campus tour.
Speaking about the Physics lecture he attended, Samir, a Year 5 pupil at High Hazels Academy, said:
“I enjoyed learning about space and I made a galaxy. I called my galaxy ‘The Samir Way’.”
Commenting on their visit to Oxford, a pupil at The Elms Academy, added:
“Before we came to Oxford, I thought it would be too hard a university to get into and so I wouldn’t try to apply. But after being here, I have been inspired to apply!”
Participating pupils were awarded badges and a certificate to take back to their school in celebration of their hard work.
Chris Clyne, Regional Director at United Learning, said:
“Very well done to all our young people who took part in this year’s Student Leadership and Social Action Programmes. What is fantastic about these initiatives is that students choose an issue that is of particular importance to them and work together to tackle this issue in their local communities. It is an excellent way for our young people to see firsthand how their actions can make a significant and positive difference, whilst developing their teamwork and leadership skills.
“Thank you as always to St Anne’s College for facilitating the Celebration Days and for giving our students a unique insight into what it is like to attend university. I have no doubt that our young people left the Days feeling inspired and rightly proud of their efforts.”