School’s rooftop allotment proves top class earning local award and Jamie Oliver recognition

A school on a famously-named street in Crewe has gone sky-high to earn its green credentials – quite literally!

Sir William Stanier School on Coronation Street has a flourishing roof-top allotment where youngsters grow food and flowers.

Their hard work was recognised at Crewe Mayor’s recent Community Awards where the classmates carried off the Young Achievers award.

Teacher Sara Randle said: “Our Food Ambassadors earn their role and badge through commitment and genuine involvement.

“They take part in extracurricular food activities, are involved in at least two community action sessions, and show strong engagement in their food lessons in school.

“Over the last 12 months, they have been at the heart of some big changes in our school environment. They helped to dig and develop our nature pond and plant a wildflower area to encourage biodiversity. They were involved in planning and planting our community orchard.

“One of the biggest projects was installing our rooftop allotment. This involved building the planting beds and physically moving soil up to the second floor of the building. It was hard work, but they were determined and incredibly proud of what they achieved.”

With a busy growing season ahead, youngsters are looking forward to working on the allotment and reaping the rewards – fresh produce to take home and share with other people.

Sara added: “The impact reaches beyond the classroom. Our Food Ambassadors have raised money through bake sales and regularly cook half termly for the Chance Changing Lives meal that supports local homeless and vulnerable people. We are incredibly proud of them and of how far the project has come in just one year. ”

Sir William Stanier has also been nationally accredited with the LEAF Bronze Demonstrator Award. LEAF Education Demonstration Schools are pioneering schools and colleges that use farming, food production and the natural environment within the curriculum.

Sara herself was honoured in the 2025 Jamie Oliver Good School Food Awards with the celebrity chef saying: “Sara’s the kind of teacher who changes lives. She’s shown that good food education is not just about cooking, it can also spark confidence, curiosity and connection. She’s a total star.”