'This was a fantastic opportunity' - Tameside pupils help launch new Lidl store in Wednesbury
Pupils from Tameside Primary Academy in Wednesbury took centre stage during the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Lidl store in Tamebridge, Walsall. The store, built on the site of the former Tamebridge Garage Ltd on Walsall Road, welcomed the local community with celebrations marking its grand opening.
Representing both their school and the wider Trust community, the children were invited to take part in the event, reflecting the strong links between the Academy and local businesses.
Cem Yalluri, Associate Principal at Tameside Primary Academy, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for our pupils to be part of a community event. By being involved in the store opening, they could see first-hand how local businesses operate, understand the importance of community connections, and explore ideas around healthy eating and sustainability.
“Experiences like this give children real-world links to their learning, while also fostering a sense of pride in contributing to their community.”
The opening coincided with Lidl’s new Foodies Programme, a nationwide initiative supporting primary schools with resources to encourage children to enjoy healthy eating. To date, over 243,984 children have taken part, with Lidl now reaching 10% of British primary schools. The programme offers three workshops per year, with topics ranging from learning how fruit and veg are grown and learning some nutritious recipes.
As part of the programme and in recognition of their participation, Tameside Primary Academy will receive a weekly delivery of fresh fruit for the first four weeks following the store’s opening. This provides every pupil with nutritious snacks and opportunities to integrate healthy eating into lessons.
Tameside Primary Academy’s involvement highlighted the value of partnerships between schools, businesses and local residents, and showcased the benefits of providing pupils with experiences that inspire learning, curiosity and community pride.
For more information about the Lidl Foodies Programme can be found on the Lidl website.
Applications for Reception places at Tameside Primary Academy starting September 2026 are now open for residents in Sandwell and Dudley. Parents should apply for their place via their local authority. The deadline for reception applications is Thursday 15 January 2026.
To learn more about Tameside Primary Academy, call 0121 556 0340 or visit the Academy website.
