FIVE Wirral schools were awarded at the Educate Awards on Friday, November 15.

The winners were Ss Peter and Paul Primary School, New Brighton, Orrets Meadow School, Moreton, High School, Birkenhead, Bedford Drive Primary School, Birkenhead, and West Kirby Grammar School.

Ss Peter and Paul Primary School won the Outstanding Commitment to the Environment category for its remarkable 'Curriculum of Hope' conservation exhibition, which engaged thousands of visitors and featured support from figures like Sir David Attenborough and Pope Francis.

The initiative aimed to inspire students and the community to engage in conservation, conveying the message that children's voices matter in saving the world.

Orrets Meadow School was honoured with the SEND Provision Award - Specialist School for its outstanding support of students with autistic spectrum condition (ASC).

The school is recognised for its expertise in ASC, featuring specialised sensory rooms and a strong emphasis on staff development.

The school achieved Advanced Autism Accreditation and received an 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating in 2024.

As the winner of the Innovative & Creative Literacy Award, Ridgeway High School implemented a bespoke reading programme, 'Reading Routes,' which closed the literacy gap and helped improve reading scores among students.

Bedford Drive Primary School received the Outstanding Commitment to Sport in Primary School award.

The school developed an PE programme that has earned a gold mark from Your School Games.

Taking home the WOW Recognition Award was West Kirby Grammar School, for its ‘Toxteth project’ which explored the history of the Liverpool 8 area, engaging more than 100 students in community interviews and resulting in a unique performance that highlighted the black community's history in Liverpool.

This project prompted discussions on race and diversity and led to changes in the school’s history curriculum.

Kim O’Brien, founder of the Educate Awards, said: “Congratulations to the Wirral schools that won at this year’s Educate Awards!

“A huge well done to the runners-up and finalists and thank you to everyone who took the time to enter.

“The results were incredibly close, and judges had their work cut out deciding not only the shortlist but also overall the winners.

Now in its thirteenth year, the Educate Awards features 21 categories and shines a spotlight on all aspects of education from sports and arts to literacy and the environment.

The shortlist recognises inspiring teachers, dedicated support staff and strategic leadership teams who continue to make a meaningful difference in their communities.

The ceremony took place at the Liverpool Cathedral and welcomed more than 600 guests. The evening was hosted by broadcaster, Simon ‘Rossie’ Ross.

Kim added: “The Educate Awards is proud to be shining a spotlight on the region’s schools and colleges, and celebrating the amazing work taking place inside and outside of the classroom.

“Entries will for 2025 will open in February and we encourage all types of schools, colleges and multi academy trusts to submit entries.”