In 2024, Everton Free School's Science Department secured a prestigious £3,000 Royal Society Partnership Grant to launch an ambitious environmental project focused on answering one key question: "How can we enhance biodiversity in our school garden?"

At the start of the project, the school's outdoor space consisted largely of concrete, with limited planting and very little wildlife. The aim was to transform the area into a thriving habitat while giving students the opportunity to undertake genuine scientific research and contribute to environmental conservation.

As part of the Royal Society Partnership Grant, the school collaborated with leading STEM professionals. Ecologist Dr Monica McCard from Liverpool John Moores University became the school's STEM Partner, providing expert guidance throughout the project. Monica helped students develop their research plan and identify practical conservation projects that would have the greatest impact on biodiversity.

Students also experienced hands-on fieldwork, taking part in kick sampling activities to compare biodiversity in local rivers. Monica supplied specialist equipment and brown trout alevins, enabling students to observe and study the complete early life cycle of brown trout in the classroom. Once the fish had developed into fry, students joined Monica and the Mersey Rivers Trust to release them into a suitable natural habitat.

The school's second STEM Partner, Sophie Purcella from Knowsley Safari Park, worked closely with students to help design the school garden while delivering engaging sessions about biodiversity, conservation and careers within the environmental sector.

Although rooted in science, the project quickly became a truly cross-curricular initiative. Students applied mathematical skills to collect and analyse biodiversity data, produced artwork to showcase their findings, and designed and built hedgehog houses, planters and trellises as part of their Construction studies.

Before any improvements were made, students carried out baseline biodiversity surveys to establish what wildlife already existed within the school grounds. Throughout the year they completed a series of environmental enhancement projects, including:

• Creating a wildflower meadow from an unused grassed area.
• Building bug hotels and hedgehog houses fitted with wildlife cameras.
• Constructing a wildlife pond.
• Planting native UK plants and fruit trees.

Following each stage of development, students repeated their biodiversity surveys to measure the impact of every intervention.

Their findings demonstrated that the introduction of native wildflowers produced the greatest increase in biodiversity, although every project contributed towards creating a healthier ecosystem. The once-barren garden is now flourishing with insects, birds and other wildlife, with students celebrating the exciting sighting of their very first honey bee.

The success of the project led to an incredible opportunity. Everton Free School was selected by the Royal Society to present its research at the Young Researcher Event in London on 1 July 2026. The fully funded event brought together schools from across the country to showcase innovative scientific research.

In a landmark achievement, Everton Free School became the first Alternative Provision school ever invited to participate in this prestigious national event.

Five students who had played an integral role throughout the project travelled to London to present their research to members of the public, fellow schools and leading science professionals. The event proved to be an unforgettable experience, with students confidently explaining their findings and answering questions from visitors throughout the day.

Their enthusiasm and professionalism attracted widespread praise. Following a conversation with local MP Kim Johnson, the group received an invitation to visit the Houses of Parliament, where they enjoyed a guided tour, including the House of Commons and the famous parliamentary terrace. Kim kindly treated the students to refreshments while discussing their achievements and future ambitions.

The visit also included sightseeing across London and a trip to the zoo, creating memories that will remain with students for many years to come.

The project has not only transformed the school's outdoor environment but has also transformed students' confidence, aspirations and understanding of scientific research. By providing meaningful real-world experiences and opportunities to work alongside professional scientists, the project has shown what young people can achieve when given the opportunity to thrive.

The success continues beyond the project itself, with Everton Free School set to be featured as a national case study by Sustainability Support for Schools, recognising the impact of its innovative approach to sustainability and environmental education.

The school would like to extend its sincere thanks to everyone who supported the project, including The Royal Society Education, Dr Monica McCard, Sophie Purcella, Everton Football Club for donating a signed shirt, Gemma Smith and the Liverpool Foundation, Thornton Hall Hotel for providing an afternoon tea voucher, Tess at Tony Almond's Garden Centre for supplying plants and expert advice, and ALDI Walton for their valued support.

Everton Free School is incredibly proud of every student involved. Their dedication, enthusiasm and determination have not only created a greener, more biodiverse school environment but have also demonstrated the remarkable achievements that are possible when curiosity, opportunity and community come together.