Janine GriffithsWhat started as a simple idea quickly turned into something much bigger, as families gathered across Seacroft for Leeds East Academy’s Easter egg hunt last Saturday.
The trail wound its way through Seacroft, bringing together pupils, parents and staff in a relaxed setting far removed from the classroom. Children followed clues, searched for hidden treats and kept a lookout for a special guest hopping through the streets.
On the day, that sense of excitement was clear. The appearance of two Easter Bunnies added to the atmosphere, drawing smiles and curiosity from passers-by as well as those taking part.
Speaking on the day, Sarah Chammings, Vice Principal at Leeds East Academy said: “We’ve really enjoyed it. It’s been lovely for colleagues to work together in a more informal setting, and for families to not only get some exercise, but clean up the area and also have a little treat from us.”
Mark Ayres, Principal at Leeds East Academy added: “We’ve had lots of fun and laughter. We’ve had 2 Easter Bunnies walking through the community, which has been good and caused a bit of a stir amongst everybody.”
However, according to Mark, the event represented much more than just a fun celebration.
For him, the day showed what can happen when a school steps outside its gates and becomes part of the neighbourhood it serves.
“We want the name of Leeds East to be very much a community school,” he said, adding: “We want the community to be proud of the school, to look at the school as a hub of inclusion and a beacon for the area.”
He added that the academy hopes future events will open the doors even wider, giving local groups and leaders the confidence to collaborate with the school on community-focussed activities.
“We’ve got youngsters from our school working with the community, and changing the values of what the outlook is for us and Seacroft,” he explained.
Support independent community journalism!
East Side Story covers the people, places and stories in Leeds that are too often overlooked. While national headlines chase conflict and clickbait, we focus on real communities and the issues shaping daily life in East Leeds.
Divisive content, AI noise and online rumours spread faster than ever. At the same time, many mainstream outlets are stretched and rarely spotlight the community organisations and local champions who deserve recognition.
East Side Story was created to change that. We answer only to our readers. We have no corporate owners or billionaire funders. Our journalists report freely, ask difficult questions and hold power to account.
Your support helps us keep this work going. Monthly contributions make the biggest impact because they allow us to invest in deeper reporting and fearless local journalism.
Supporters also receive exclusive updates, behind the scenes insights and other benefits as a thank you for keeping independent journalism alive.
