Longfield Academy is celebrating a major achievement after being crowned the winner of the Big Big Project, a high-profile initiative funded by the Department for Education and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
The competition challenged 10 schools across the region to delve into Darlington Borough Council’s three long-term success priorities and create their own innovative visions for what the town could look like by the year 2040—when today’s students will be entering the workforce.
Pupils from Longfield Academy rose to the challenge with creativity, critical thinking, and commitment. After weeks of dedicated research, planning, and design, they presented a compelling vision for Darlington’s future that impressed judges and secured the top prize.
“We are incredibly proud of our students,” said Justin Tattersall, Assistant Headteacher at Longfield Academy. “This project not only allowed them to explore exciting possibilities for the future of Darlington, but also empowered them to think like future leaders, planners, and innovators. Winning the Big Big Project is a testament to their talent, teamwork, and determination.”
From exploring key themes such as sustainability, innovation, and community wellbeing to building detailed models and presenting their ideas with confidence, Longfield’s pupils demonstrated a passion for shaping a brighter future for their town.
The victory marks a proud moment not only for the school and Northern Arch Learning Partnership Trust but also the wider Darlington community, showcasing the power of youth voices in creating long-term change.
