DROITWICH Spa played host recently to a youth conference which brought children together from three schools across the region to give their views on how to make a difference in the world.

The 62 youngsters, aged between 13 and 15 from Walsall Academy, Beaufort Co-operative Academy and Community College Bishops Castle, met up at the Chateau Impney Hotel for the conference, which was organised through The Midcounties Co-operative board.

Working in teams of eight, they were asked to consider ways that society could engage with young people, and how people could be more co-operative.

They also took part in a number of teamwork challenges which had been set up in the hotel-s ground, which were designed to give them the opportunity to showcase leadership and teamwork skills they had picked up in a recent outward bound trip.

The trip had already seen the youngsters stay in Aberdovey as part of The Green Pioneers programme with no running water or power, and take part in a trek, learning tactics to live sustainably.

Pete Westall, group general manager of community and social responsibility, was at the conference, and was impressed by the attitudes of the youngsters. He said: “It was a real privilege to open the inaugural conference to support Green Pioneers and listen to some of the inspiring students debate ways that they can be more co-operative and set a good example in their local communities.

“At the Midcounties Co-operative we’re always looking for new ways to engage with young people and encourage them to make a positive difference in the world. The conference provided much food for thought and we thank our young delegates for their valuable contribution.”

Jon Clarke, deputy head of Walsall Academy, added: “We’re proud of our participation in the Green Pioneers Programme, which has played a vital role in helping our pupils to understand the importance of working together and using their co-operative values to make a difference.

“This conference was a great opportunity for students to voice their views, whilst team building with other pupils in the community, and we look forward to applying these learnings in our own school to further enhance our pupils abilities to work together and be co-operative.”