Changemaking for Good

The Matthew Pott Changemakers Award recognises not only individuals but also long-term projects with the aim of having an impact in the community around us. This award is, therefore, at the heart of what we believe is important here in Leighton Park.

Matthew Pott was an Old Leightonian who, whilst being here with us, was strongly involved in charity work. Sadly, he was killed by a hit and run driver not long after finishing his Masters, and just before starting a job as an app designer with Apple. The Matthew Pott Award was set up in his memory by his family, to reward students, initially for actions in support of Peace or interpretations of Peace in different media. It has broadened to a wider remit of actions for the good of others and became the Changermaker award in 2021.

Wendy Pott, Matthew’s mum, reflected: “The focus of the award would make Matthew very proud. Celebrating kindness and compassion manifesting in practical actions seems a vital part of being a student at Leighton Park. We will not all be amazingly academics, outstanding sports people or marvellous musicians, but we all have a part to play in this world that could and should make a difference to the lives of others. Leighton Park is the perfect place for young people to explore who they are and where their passions and concerns lay and have a safe place to develop them. Acknowledging all these emerging attributes seems to be the essence of the school and by focusing on them it highlights that these qualities are valued. The students become a gift to the world as they are the ones who can change the world for the better just by being themselves”.

The 2025 recipient of the award, Anis (Upper Sixth), was delighted to have been nominated by his Housemaster, Alex Leighton, for the many acts of kindness that have characterised Anis’ behaviour over the last few years. Anis was honoured to accept the award, saying: “When it comes to ethical changemaking, I’d like to leave you guys with a little note. If you have an idea, no matter how small or big, take that step and just pursue what is right in your eyes because every big change starts with a small action.”