STUDENTS from a school in Wirral have been working together to improve diversity in education.

A group of 14 pupils from St Mary’s Catholic College in Wallasey who come from various backgrounds across multiple year groups have been selected to make a difference in their school and the wider community.

Formed in January 2022 in partnership with the University of Liverpool and Shaping Futures, part of the Office for Students funded Uni Connect programme, the school's Diversity Group was created in response to pupil voice that highlighted barriers that existed for some groups of students.

Headteacher of St Mary’s Catholic College, Mr Kevin Maddocks, said: “We are incredibly proud of the passion shown by our school’s Diversity Group. They have been working hard on this project and have already made a really positive impact. 

“It is important that all students feel represented both within the school and the wider community. They hold a real presence in St Mary’s, and we are looking forward to continuing the group next year and involving our students as we ensure that our school is a safe, diverse, and comfortable environment for our young people to thrive.” 

Loud Speaker, an organisation that aspires to give young people the confidence to achieve their goals, has been supporting the group through the journey, delivering workshops, and encouraging them to make the most of each opportunity. 

The Diversity Group meet regularly on a Friday afternoon with Mr George and Lydia Radican from the University of Liverpool, to take part in sessions that explore the university’s Race Equality Charter submission to Advance HE, Guild, and campaigning, in addition to different cultures and role models to inspire all members of the group.  

Another aim of the group is to inspire young people to aspire to greatness in the future and provide a pathway to university. The work with the University of Liverpool has included visits to the campus, meeting students and participating in a Black History Month Liverpool walking tour.  

During a recent visit to London, the young people explored the Black Cultural Archives in Windrush Square and learnt about the history of people of African and Caribbean descent in the UK. This gave the group a chance to visit a variety of exhibitions and hold impactful conversations with one another and staff members at the centre, thinking about further work they can do as part of the group. 

On Monday, June 19, students also visited the University of York to meet with the York Black Access Team to talk about access into university for minority students and participate in a workshop with Loud Speaker. 

Mr George said: “I have never been prouder of a group of young people.

“The work they have already done is fantastic, and they are about to make a huge impact for years to come for future students coming to St Mary’s like themselves.”