Award-winning projects impress at the Lincolnshire Show
Walton Academy students have achieved outstanding success at the 2026 Lincolnshire Show, held on Wednesday 17 and Thursday 18 June, earning both first and third place awards in the prestigious Secondary Schools Challenge.
Following months of planning, research and preparation, students showcased two impressive projects at the Lincolnshire Show: soil science and growing resilience. Their hard work, enthusiasm and dedication were rewarded with excellent results against strong competition from schools across the county.
The soil science project achieved an impressive first place in its category during its very first year of involvement, while the sensory-based growing resilience project secured third place in its class.
Engaging visitors and sharing knowledge
Throughout the two-day Lincolnshire Show, students confidently welcomed visitors to their stands, explained their projects and answered questions from members of the public.
Both exhibits attracted significant interest from show visitors, with students demonstrating excellent communication skills and a genuine passion for their subjects.
The growing resilience project featured a sensory shed designed to highlight the benefits of engaging with nature and outdoor spaces, while the soil science project explored the importance of healthy soil and sustainable farming practices.
Students also enjoyed a livestock tour, where they had the opportunity to get up close to cows, sheep and pigs while learning more about animal husbandry and agriculture.
Special visit from JB Gill
A memorable highlight of the Lincolnshire Show was a visit from television presenter, farmer and former JLS star JB Gill.
JB spent time exploring the growing resilience sensory shed, speaking with students about their work and showing a genuine interest in the project. He even added his own “J-Bee” to the display, creating a lasting memory for the group.
His visit was a welcome recognition of the students’ efforts and added to an already exciting experience at one of Lincolnshire’s biggest annual events.
From farm visits to first place
The success of the soil science project was built on a series of valuable learning experiences throughout the year.
Students visited Chappell Farm in North Lincolnshire, where they explored different soil types, collected samples and investigated the role soil health plays in sustainable agriculture. They learned directly from award-winning farmer Colin Chappell, whose expertise helped bring classroom learning to life.
Students also took part in a soil science masterclass delivered by LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming). During the workshop, they analysed soil samples, explored physical and chemical soil properties and built their own wormeries to understand the important role worms play in maintaining healthy soil ecosystems.
These practical experiences gave students the knowledge and confidence to develop an award-winning project for the Lincolnshire Show.
A fantastic achievement for Walton Academy
The achievements at the Lincolnshire Show reflect the commitment, teamwork and enthusiasm shown by students over many months.
Staff were particularly proud of how students represented Walton Academy throughout the event, engaging positively with visitors and supporting one another across both projects.
Congratulations to all students involved in the soil science and growing resilience projects. Their success at the Lincolnshire Show is a testament to their hard work, curiosity and willingness to embrace new opportunities.
A huge thank you also goes to the staff, volunteers and external partners who supported the projects from the early planning stages through to the final judging.
We look forward to building on this success and returning to the Lincolnshire Show in the future.
