Meet the winners: Go out there and build an inclusive community
This category was for those who were passionate about ensuring everyone feels welcome and valued, creating a community where everyone belongs.
The goal was to develop projects that broke down barriers, celebrated differences and fostered a strong sense of belonging for all residents, regardless of background or circumstance. Through improved accessibility, community support and kindness, inclusion innovators are helping to build a community where everyone thrives.
Gold winner: This Is Me - Outwood Academy Hasland Hall, Chesterfield
This Is Me worked closely with Chesterfield FC to publish their publicity programme and supporting video informing Chesterfield of the work that their Community Trust undertake. They planned the club’s whole publicity material!
The team met with the Trust to find out what was needed. They also worked with elderly people in exercise classes to get a feel of the work that the Trust does. They then set about producing professional-quality materials explaining the benefits of the Trust to the local community.
Their work is now available at a wide variety of retail outlets in Chesterfield. The work the team have done now means that members of the community know what activities exist and how to access them.
Silver winner: Night Owls - Outwood Grange Academy, Wakefield
The team demonstrated exceptional commitment by completing 54 hours of voluntary service at a local senior citizens club and community food bank. They took a highly proactive approach to their roles, managing essential logistics such as inventory processing and activity coordination.
Through this hands-on engagement, they developed significant organisational and interpersonal skills while fostering meaningful community connections. Their dedication was further evidenced by a team member returning early from their family holiday!
Collectively, their efforts provided vital operational assistance and highlighted a mature, reliable approach to civic responsibility and community welfare.
Bronze winner: Bee - Outwood Academy Easingwold, York
The team set out to foster a truly inclusive and vibrant local community. Not just words, they actively built it, block by block. Their dedication shines through in every detail, from organising tireless litter picks that beautify local shared spaces to running imaginative and enriching creative sessions that engage younger children.
They created a welcoming, safe and stimulating environment for everyone in the community. The Bee Team exemplifies teamwork and community spirit.
