BCCET pupils celebrate faith and sustainability with Live Simply award success
From reducing waste to running a pre-loved uniform shop, pupils and staff from two North East primary schools — both part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust (BCCET) — have been recognised for their inspiring commitment to living simply and sustainably.
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Blackhall and Our Lady of the Lourdes Catholic Primary School in Shotton have each been awarded the Live Simply Award by the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD).
The award celebrates communities that are taking practical steps to live more simply, sustainably, and in solidarity with people in need, in response to Pope Francis’ call to care for our common home in Laudato Si’.
Across both schools, children and staff have worked together on a range of projects aimed at protecting the environment and supporting others — from reducing waste and encouraging recycling, to championing compassion and community action.
Lisa Ashton, Executive Head Teacher of both schools, said: “We are delighted that both schools have received the Live Simply Awards. It is a wonderful recognition of how our school communities are living out our faith. Our pupils have shown that small, simple actions can lead to meaningful change.
“This achievement reflects the commitment, kindness and faith-filled action of our whole school community. The children feel proud knowing that their efforts have helped make a real difference, both locally and globally.”
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, added: “It’s fantastic to see schools like St Joseph’s and Our Lady of the Lourdes leading the way in embedding sustainability and compassion into everyday school life.
These projects show how education in the North East continues to empower children not only to learn, but to take real action — shaping the kind of thoughtful, responsible citizens our communities and our planet need.”
Pupils have also shared their pride in achieving the award
Millie, age 10, a Year 6 pupil at St Joseph’s, said: “We had lots of fun and feel like we’ve made a difference to our school and our community. As we move forward, we will live simply and take care of God’s creations.”
Mia, age 8, a Year 4 pupil at Our Lady of the Lourdes, added: “We are so happy that our school has achieved the Live Simply Award. We’re proud to have answered Pope Francis’ call from Laudato Si’ by caring for people in our school, our local community, our global family, and for the beautiful world God gave us.”
This recognition highlights how North East schools continue to nurture young people who are not only passionate about learning, but also about making a difference in their communities and the wider world.
BCCET is a Schools North East Partner Trust. If you’d like to find out more about our Partner School membership, click here.
We love to hear good news from North East Schools! To share your news with Schools North East, please tag @SchoolsNE on X (formerly Twitter) or fill out this short form here.