Eco Schools

Over the past three years we have worked hard to achieve the Eco-Schools Award with distinction. To do this, each year the children vote for two ecological representatives, that we call 'eco-warriors'. It is the eco-committee's job to conduct an audit, lead assemblies with Mrs Jackson on the three areas that we have selected to work on that year. This year it was: bio-diversity, school grounds and marine life.

Here is the feedback we received when achieving the award this year:

Your greatest success was the remarkable achievements of your Eco-warriors. They actively conducted audits, garnered support, engaged with governors and parents, organised resources, and served as true ambassadors for your action plan and EcoCode. This impressive effort has had a significant impact on promoting sustainability within your nursery. The dedication and leadership shown by these young Eco warriors have not only inspired their peers but have also ensured a comprehensive approach to environmental education.

We loved seeing the diversity and nursery grounds initiatives where children have enhanced their knowledge of plant names and connected them to the animals that may eat them. We were inspired by the children's enthusiasm during No Mow May, despite the caretakers' dismay. The Wednesday assemblies are delightful, showcasing the children’s interactions with nature, visits to local parks, bird spotting, and notes on seasonal changes in their gardens. These assemblies foster a love for nature and encourage children to discuss how their seeds are growing at home.

It was fantastic how the children extended their learning after assemblies on marine plastics, leading to a reduction in single-use plastics in their lunch boxes. The Eco Warriors' initiative in checking lunch boxes and praising the use of tin foil or reusable plastic pots has significantly impacted other children. The nursery and reception children's conversations on ocean conservation have been profound, fostering a sense of responsibility towards marine life.

We enjoyed finding out about the biodiversity lessons, where children investigated pollinators, food chains, and micro-habitats within the school grounds. Their observations on soil quality, plant growth, and seasonal changes have been impressive. This hands-on learning has cultivated a deeper understanding of environmental science among the students.

We understand it was a challenge to maintain and work on the grounds during the winter months due to weather conditions. Despite this, the children showed great enthusiasm for gardening, patrolling the saplings, and encouraging parents to manage litter and plastic waste. We know that controlling food waste from the kitchen and making sustainable food choices were difficult, but your efforts to compost food waste are impressive! Our only advice is to continue building on your wonderful achievements next year. Great work!

If you would like to find out more about Eco-Schools please visit the website:

www.eco-schools.org.uk