The grant, won by the school’s “Teach Teens a Trade” initiative, will support the transformation of an outdoor area into an engaging learning space designed for bricklaying activities, practical teamwork and wellbeing-focused workshops. The funding will enable the purchase of essential bricklaying equipment and materials to run the project, helping students develop confidence, new practical skills and stronger routines.  

During her visit, Emma Pow met pupils involved with the project, heard about their ambitions and enthusiasm for practical learning, and celebrated the positive impact that supportive community partnerships can have on young people’s futures. 

“We are incredibly grateful to Tesco and our local community for backing our bricklaying project and for the opportunity to bring this outdoor learning space to life,” said Mr Earle, Teacher from Gordano School. “It was wonderful to welcome Emma Pow and share our vision with her — seeing the excitement from our students really brought home the difference this support will make.” 

The Tesco Stronger Starts programme offers community groups and schools the chance to secure funding for activities that benefit children and young people. Local Tesco customers cast votes using blue tokens in store, helping projects like Teach Teens a Trade to gain valuable support.  

Gordano School looks forward to beginning work on the outdoor learning space in the new year, with plans to share progress and student stories as the project develops.