A memorial garden will be created at the front of a school in memory of a former headteacher.
Mandy Golding was headteacher at Acton High from September 2007 to December 2010, when she retired due to ill health. She sadly passed away on October 31, 2011.
Year seven to 10 students at the school in Gunnersbury Lane pitched for and won a £1,000 grant from City Pitch, part of the Mayor’s Fund for London, on July 3.
The money will be used to form an eco-friendly allotment garden for Ms Golding with pink flowers, as pink was her favourite colour.
The students also proposed to use an area of land to grow herbs and vegetables to use for various community activities including making soup for the elderly in their area.
There will also be an eco-friendly greenhouse and recycled tyres in which to grow food all year round.
Year 10 student, Amber Thomas-Lorainey, who was part of the bidding process, said, “Going to City Hall and giving the presentation was very rewarding because I felt I was making a difference to the school and I had the courage to speak in front of directors and representatives from other schools. My favourite part was paying respects to our late headteacher, Ms Golding, as the money we received will go towards the memorial garden for her.”
Headteacher, Dr. Andy Sievewright, said, “We’re delighted that our students were able to secure this funding for such a worthy project.
"Their success shows their commitment and enthusiasm. We look forward to enjoying the results.”
Students had researched the costs and put together graphic images of their vision for the garden to create a convincing case to be awarded the full amount for their project.
They carried out surveys among the staff, students and parents to assess the interest and need for both gardens.
City Pitch is an opportunity from the Mayor’s Fund for London to empower pupils to make a difference in their local community as well as develop their project management and presentation skills.
