Wednesfield Technology Primary in Wolverhampton marked a significant milestone with its official opening ceremony, celebrating its first year since welcoming pupils in September 2024. The event celebrated the school’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, inspiring young minds to shape a greener, more environmentally conscious future.
In collaboration with the Woodland Trust and their Green Tree Schools Award, the ceremony highlighted the school’s dedication to environmental education, showcasing how sustainability is at the heart of its mission to foster the next generation.
Wednesfield Technology Primary has been designed to meet the Passivhaus classic standard, with energy efficiency and building performance at its heart. The school utilises eco-friendly technologies and sustainable, low-embodied carbon materials with the aim of reducing energy usage.
Joining in the celebrations was a distinguished group of guests, including the Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Linda Leach, who talked of the school’s significance within the local community. Key stakeholders in the school’s development were also in attendance, including representatives from construction company Tilbury Douglas and members of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust. Among them were Sir Mark Grundy, CEO, and Lady Kirsty Grundy, Director of Primary Education and Executive Principal at Shireland Technology Primary.
The event opened with a whole-school assembly, bringing together pupils, families, and guests to celebrate the school’s journey. The assembly highlighted the school’s approach to curiosity, creativity, and environmental responsibility. It also showcased its commitment to a unique curriculum that blends traditional education with technology-infused learning. This innovative approach equips pupils with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Sir Mark Grundy, CEO of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, reflected on the school’s impact: “As a Trust, we are working hard to reduce our carbon footprint, and Wednesfield Technology Primary will lead the way in helping us to play our part in securing the future of our environment for the better.
“This school not only nurtures young minds by providing an exceptional Shireland education but also cultivates responsible and environmentally conscious leaders of tomorrow. It’s more than just a school; it’s an investment in the future of our children and our planet.”
Claire Keeler, Principal of Wednesfield Technology Primary, commented: “We are absolutely delighted to celebrate the official opening of Wednesfield Technology Primary, and we are truly grateful to be working with the Woodland Trust, which makes this occasion even more special.
The tree-planting ceremony is a powerful symbol of our shared commitment to a greener, more sustainable future—not just for our pupils, but for the wider community. It’s about more than teaching children the importance of caring for our planet; it’s about empowering them with the knowledge and values to become responsible stewards of the environment.”
The highlight of the day was the ceremonial tree planting, where pupils, school representatives and special guests came together to plant the first of many saplings generously provided by the Woodland Trust. Through its Free Trees for Schools initiative, the charity supplies schools across the UK with free trees to help create greener spaces, boost biodiversity and inspire young people to care for their environment. As the trees grow, they will enhance the school grounds, support local wildlife and enhance pupils’ opportunities for outdoor learning as part of the Green Tree Schools Award.
Karen Letten, Schools & Communities Engagement Manager at the Woodland Trust, commented: “We are delighted to be working with Wednesfield Technology Primary on the Green Tree Schools Award. The trees they are planting now will grow alongside the pupils and help to develop their love and appreciation of woods and trees. The environmental ethos of this school will help to develop environmentally responsible citizens of the future”.
The Woodland Trust’s Green Tree Schools Award is a national environmental initiative that encourages schools to get involved in outdoor learning and sustainability projects through inspiring pupils about woods and trees. Through a range of projects including tree planting, recycling and exploring local wildlife, the award helps pupils to develop a greater understanding of nature and the importance of caring for the environment. The scheme recognises schools’ efforts with different award levels, celebrating their commitment to creating greener, more eco-friendly school communities.
