Pure-hearted pupils spread positivity and purpose this winter

As part of their heartfelt Eden Girls’ Food Drive, pupils and staff ensured vulnerable members of the local community felt supported and cared for this winter. Thoughtfully prepared food packs were delivered to residents of local shelters and hostels, including St Anne’s Hostel, Heartlands Hostel, St Basils Youth Centre, and Haadi Housing - with each delivery offering not only essential supplies, but also moments of comfort, kindness, and connection.

The spirit of service continued as volunteers from the school supported Birmingham’s Homeless One charity, spending two evenings serving hot meals lovingly funded through donations from staff and pupils. By turning collective goodwill into practical, heartfelt support, they helped make sure those facing hardship felt seen, supported, and cared for during the coldest nights of the season.

To provide warmth and comfort this winter, pupils and staff donated bedding items - including pillows, duvets, and blankets - all of which were shared with St Basils charity to support young people facing homelessness. Pairing generosity with empathy, pupils also took part in the St Basils Big Sleep Out 2025. By seeking sponsorships and spending a night braving the cold, they not only raised vital funds, but also gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those without a safe place to call home.

Working with Migrant Help UK, pupils, staff, and their families contributed to the Shoe Box Appeal, preparing boxes filled appropriate essentials - from body wash, toothpaste, and socks to hairbrushes and hair accessories - alongside handmade cards offering words of comfort and encouragement.

After bringing seasonal support to children and families, pupils also extended their generosity to the older generation by turning their focus to the local Fountains Care Home with the presentation of special, thoughtful hampers. Residents received a mix of 'Pamper Hampers' - filled with comforting self-care items - and 'Treat Hampers', containing snacks, sweets, and small gifts. These seasonal treats were given alongside handmade cards during the residents’ festive lunch, strengthening intergenerational bonds, fostering empathy, and spreading festive cheer throughout the care home.

The school also opened its doors to the same residents for a special festive afternoon tea, where pupils and staff created a joy-filled, welcoming atmosphere, and the school’s Nasheed Choir performed uplifting melodies - making the occasion both memorable and meaningful.

Saleh Islam , Principal at Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham said: "I am so proud of our pupils for the thoughtfulness, energy, and compassion they have shown this winter. From supporting local shelters and hostels to brightening the days of children and older people alike, they have truly put our ethos of kindness into action. The Winter Gift Programme allows them to learn empathy through doing, and it is wonderful to see their generosity, creativity, and teamwork making a real difference in the lives of so many."

The Winter Gift Programme is an annual campaign which sees pupils and staff from every Star Academies school unite to participate in a broad range of charitable giving, acts of kindness and volunteering; all with one simple aim – to make sure no one faces the challenges of winter alone.