As the festive season draws near, students at Whitworth Park Academy in Spennymoor are bringing the spirit of giving to life by supporting local food banks with essential supplies.

Now in its seventh year, the academy’s annual campaign challenges all five year groups to fill a household wheelie bin with as many non-perishable items as possible, a lifeline for local families in need. Since its launch in 2019, this initiative has raised over £13,000, thanks to the incredible generosity of students, staff, and the wider community.

This year, we teamed up with Mears Group to make an even bigger impact, donating £1,000 and three trolleys brimming with food to boost the students’ collections. Benefiting food banks include Ferryhill Food Bank, Brighter Futures, Cornforth Partnership, Shildon Alive, Junction 7, Chilton Parish Church, and St Paul’s Church Foodbank, Spennymoor.

The spirit of kindness didn’t stop there. Year 9 students went the extra mile by hand-delivering food parcels to elderly neighbours, taking time to chat and ensure they felt supported with essentials during the festive season.

Graham Darby, Director of Housing and Communities, said: “This campaign truly makes a real difference in our community. It’s inspiring to see students, staff, and local partners come together to support families who need it most. Every item donated helps ease the pressure for someone this festive season, and that’s what it’s all about—making sure no one feels forgotten.”

Stuart Dixon, Headteacher, said: “As this festive season approaches, I am incredibly proud of our children, staff, and community at Whitworth Park Academy for their unwavering generosity. Our annual food bank donation initiative is a testament to the spirit of giving and support that defines our school.”

Pictured: Year 7; Katie S, Logan M, Daisy L, Isla Gr, Janya U, Heath H, Bella B, Emily W. Year 8; Samuel A, Sophia G, Mia T, Isabelle F, Lucy P, Aria M, Lilly D, Evie R. Year 9; Gracie B, Reece S, Oliver C. Stuart Dixon (Headteacher), Natalie (Assistant Head Teacher), Graham Darby (Director of Housing and Communities), Demi-Leigh Maughan (Administration Apprentice), Gemma Wilkinson (Project Co-Ordinator)