Bradford youth social change programme BD100 launched

Carlton Bolling, in partnership with Laisterdyke Leadership Academy, is proud to launch its involvement in BD100 – Youth Leadership for Social Change, a pioneering initiative empowering young people across Bradford to take an active role in improving their communities.

The BD100 programme brings together students aged 11–16 with local public services to build leadership skills, strengthen youth voice and co-design solutions informed by local research into the challenges facing young people across the district. The initiative places young people at the centre of change, ensuring their lived experiences directly influence decision-making and community action.

This year, students will focus on three key priority areas identified by young people themselves: vaping, digital footprint and peer pressure. These themes reflect real concerns affecting wellbeing, safety and future opportunities. By uniting two schools and amplifying student leadership, the partnership aims to develop confident role models capable of driving meaningful, long-lasting change across Bradford.

The launch event was attended by a strong coalition of community partners, reflecting the shared commitment to improving outcomes for young people. Representatives included local councillors, West Yorkshire Police, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and Bradford Council wardens. Their presence highlighted a united, cross-agency approach, ensuring BD100 is rooted in partnership, community insight and collective responsibility.

Looking ahead, Carlton Bolling and Laisterdyke Leadership Academy are excited to announce the first Bradford 3 Youth Summit, taking place later this year. This landmark event will give students a powerful platform to directly challenge councillors and MPs on the issues affecting their community, ensuring youth voice continues to shape positive change across the district.

Ameenah Akhtar, Safeguarding Lead and Inclusion Intervention Lead, said:
I am incredibly proud of our students for their involvement in the BD100 launch. This initiative provides an outstanding opportunity within the local context, connecting young people to real-world experiences and aspirations. We look forward to watching them grow, develop their skills and achieve their goals as part of this exciting journey.

Michael Churley, Community Safety Co-ordinator, added: It was especially pleasing to see people at a young age wanting to take responsibility and ownership over how to improve their neighbourhoods. The ‘Safer Bradford’ Partnership is very keen to work with this cohort of motivated young people.

Adnan Ahmed, Ward Officer Bradford East, said:  As a Ward Officer at Bradford Council, an alum of Carlton Bolling , and Laisterdyke Leadership Academy, it has been a pleasure seeing the excellent work that has been pioneered by these schools for the students and the wider community. Growing up in the area and as a resident, these changes are positive, and the differences are noticeable.

This particular project has already drawn a lot of attention by partner agencies, it will help us to provide opportunities for those students taking part, as well as helping to contribute to the work that is taking place in BD3 and to make a continuous difference.

Students involved in the programme shared their enthusiasm for the initiative.

Michelle, Year 9, said:
It’s really innovative for young people to be part of something like this. I hope we can educate and inspire other young people through BD100. I’m excited to continue this journey.

Ashraf, Year 10, added:
This is a collaboration like I’ve never seen before. It’s inspiring to see two of the biggest schools in BD3 working together. This is only the beginning. There’s so much more to come.