Kind-hearted Year 10 student, Alfie Dixon-Clark, invited Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant for County Durham, Sue Snowdon, to plant a Queen's Green Canopy (QGC) tree at the Academy to commemorate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
Alfie, known locally as ‘Alf the Kid’, organised for three QGC trees to be planted across the local community and we were delighted to welcome Mrs Snowdon into school to mark this special occasion.
Not only did Alfie organise the event, but he also commissioned local artist, Sam Lonsdale, to design a special plaque for ‘Making Peace with Nature’ - an initiative tackling climate change. The plaque incorporated an olive branch design to subtly reference the late Prince Philip who was an active environmentalist. Alfie also chose to plant a freedom apple tree as a tribute to war veterans.
Alfie has been involved in many projects in his local community including mental health advocacy for young people and ongoing work involving councillors, the police and the NHS.
Mr Taylor, Vice Principal, said: “We are incredibly proud of the many achievements Alfie has accomplished over the last few years. Alfie is an extremely caring student who goes above and beyond for those in need."
Thank you to the Lord Lieutenant, Sue Snowdon for attending and making the occasion even more special. Well done to Alfie for organising the ceremony and for consistently showing commitment and kindness!
The tree is the first of two QGC trees to be planted in our school.