The KEVI Gnomes, a fantastic student-led gardening group from The King Edward VI School Morpeth in Northumberland, have been named as winners in this year's BT Seen and Heard Awards, which has also gone international this year.

The judges, all young people, had more than 100 entries from a range of countries, including the USA, India, Nigeria, Russia, Afghanistan and Ukraine. The awards - which recognise the achievements of young people who have made a difference to society - were open to international entries for the first time. Another first was an international judge who took part via a video link from Los Angeles. This year's international entries provide a rare insight into the issues that are important to young people around the world. Projects that tackle critical issues including climate change, knife crime, local service provision and eating disorders have been entered.

Beth Courtier, head of BT’s charity programme, said: “The high level of entries to this year’s Seen & Heard Awards is a testament to the outstanding efforts of so many young people who are championing issues which are important to them.

“Every year the awards showcase some of the best young communicators from around the nation and now, thanks to this year’s international element, around the world.”

This is sure to be an exciting year ahead for the KEVI Gnomes who have some outstanding ideas to create a wonderful school and community garden on the site of an old ski-slope, including a range of fantastic projects and new buildings, such as a school museum, education room, orchard, exhibition room, cafe led by students and much more. The school has a rich history dating from it's foundation by King Edward VI In 1552, and young people hope it will bring together people of all ages in the local community.