Springhill High School at National Awards Ceremony

Date published: 07/12/2005

Springhill High School students and teachers travelled to a ceremony in London to receive a national award for their school radio station.

The school won a Philip Lawrence Award - set up in memory of Headteacher Philip Lawrence who was murdered outside his school ten years ago. The Philip Lawrence Awards reward outstanding achievements in good citizenship by young people aged 11 to 20. They recognise contributions to the community which bring out the best in young people, empower them to take the initiative and make a real difference to their lives and the lives of others, building confidence, promoting safety and reducing crime.

Student led, Springhill Community Radio Project broadcasts music, news, interviews, information and advice over school lunch times to tackle anti-social issues including bullying, discrimination and racism.

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen said: “The judges were impressed that the students tackled difficult issues like school bullying and racism in the radio shows they made. It was a great advert for Rochdale and everyone involved should be proud of what they’ve achieved.

“Both students and teachers have clearly worked very hard on the school’s radio programme. They’ve shown that there’s a lot of talent at Springhill High School, and I won’t be surprised to hear them on national airwaves in the not too distant future.

“As a former Deputy Head I appreciate how and why Philip Lawrence stepped into a fight to save a student. He paid for his actions with his life. I applaud his widow Francis for wanting to show that most young people are not like that, but are combating racism, bullying and anti-social behaviour.

"Springhill Students are a credit to Rochdale and their families.”