This academic year, pupils at The Abbey Junior School have continued to lead the way in promoting sustainability and raising environmental awareness among their school community, including peers, staff members, and the wider local community. Their exceptional efforts have once again been recognised with the prestigious, internationally recognised Eco-Schools Green Flag accreditation with Distinction.
The Eco-Schools programme, established in 1994, has been inspiring young environmentalists for over 30 years. It has grown into a global movement, with Eco-Schools Green Flag accreditation awarded to schools in more than 100 countries. In England alone, the programme reaches over 1 million young people each year, empowering them to make a positive impact on our planet.
Since The Abbey Junior School first began their Eco Schools journey in 2023, their accomplishments have included a significant reduction in waste going to landfill, thousands of pounds raised for local and wildlife charities and most importantly, spreading sustainability and conservation awareness, whilst growing a community of young eco-conscious global citizens.
This year, pupils built on these achievements impressively by tackling three key areas: School Grounds, Waste and Global Citizenship. Working together, they created a detailed and impactful year-long action plan to address these priorities. Activities included: collaboration with Buddy Leaders to clear up waste and respect our natural environment, a pop-up sustainable market, growing vegetables and edible flowers, and raising money for a Rhino charity in South Africa.
Emily in Upper IIL stated, “I have been proud of being Eco Council and making the Eco Garden better and reminding people it is not ok to litter. The Abbey makes us global citizens by all the fun gardening clubs and nature connections. I have enjoyed being Eco Council because I have shared my love with nature with others who have the same interest..”
Eco-Schools England Manager, Adam Flint, expressed: “Every year, we are amazed by the incredible efforts of young people working together to create a better future for all. Their collective impact is truly remarkable. If everyone approached the climate crisis with the same level of passion and determination, we could resolve it much faster and make it a problem of the past. At Keep Britain Tidy, we are delighted to recognise their achievements with the Eco-Schools Green Flag.”
To learn more about the Eco-Schools programme and accreditation, head to www.eco-schools.org.uk.
