With more than 100 schools and colleges considered for the award, only one overall winner and two Highly Commended awards were presented, making this a significant achievement for the academy and its students.

The award recognises the academy's outstanding work with the Institute for Research in Schools (IRIS), which has enabled students to carry out authentic scientific research and present their findings to audiences beyond the classroom.

Over the past year, students at The Lowry Academy conducted four research projects investigating factors contributing to the academy's carbon footprint. Working in teams, they explored student and staff travel habits, energy use across the school, and opportunities to reduce carbon emissions. Students designed surveys, collected and analysed data, calculated emissions, and presented their findings at the IRIS Student Research Conference in Manchester.

The judges praised both the students' engagement with the research process and the professionalism of their conference presentation. Their work demonstrated how young people can contribute meaningful research to real-world challenges while developing valuable scientific, analytical and communication skills.

As part of the recognition, The Lowry Academy has also been selected to receive a loan of a Scanning Electron Microscope through IRIS, supporting the academy's ambitious plans to further develop opportunities for student research and innovation.

Mrs N Walsh, Director of Science and Project Lead, said:

"We are incredibly proud of all that our students have achieved this year. Their enthusiasm for research, willingness to tackle real-world problems and confidence in presenting their findings to a wider audience have been exceptional."

"To be recognised with a Highly Commended award from such a strong field of schools and colleges is a fantastic achievement. It reflects the hard work of our students and staff and our commitment to providing meaningful opportunities that inspire curiosity, ambition and a love of learning."

Quote from a Year 7 student:

“One of my biggest takeaways from the conference was I learnt about a wider field of scientific jobs that I could possibly pursue in the future and broadening new ideas for different types of things I would love to research about.”

The award celebrates a remarkable year of student research at The Lowry Academy and highlights the impact that research-informed learning can have on developing the next generation of scientists, innovators and problem-solvers.