A PRIMARY school in Northwich has achieved its seventh Green Flag award for its commitment to protecting our environment.
Kingsmead Primary School’s eco group – led by teacher Shila Gajjar - were on cloud nine after hearing they were awarded the Eco-Schools Green Flag with distinction.
While the eco team completes the action planning and applies for the award, hundreds of people support the pupils and staff in their efforts.
Children in every class joined in with campaigns, such as writing to their MP and the CEOs of companies, picking up litter, working with Transition Northwich, and planting fruit and vegetables.
Teachers, support staff and governors ensure environmental principles are always at the forefront of the school, while the PTA (Kingsmead Friends Association) have investigated reducing the school’s carbon footprint and plastic waste.
Headteacher Catriona Stewart said: “It is not surprising that children are concerned about the environment and climate change. This planet is their home and their future.
“What is perhaps more surprising is that adults do not heed more the young voices of the next generation coming along behind them.
“Our school vision statement is ‘we care for ourselves, other people and our environment’ and as we work to achieve our Eco-Schools green flag every year, it is very clear that we can’t achieve one without the others.
“The cost-of-living crisis and low carbon agenda go hand in hand.
“It’s disappointing to sometimes hear them set up in opposition to each other as this just isn’t the reality I see in school or our community.”
The school has launched a ‘Useful and Kind Exchange’ where good quality books, shoes and uniforms are available to re-use – for free or with a donation if people wish to leave one.
As well as helping family budgets and reducing waste, Catriona said it also promotes a love of reading.
She added: “It means every child in school can benefit from having their own library of books at home and develop the ‘reading for pleasure’ habit that will enrich their life and lead to better outcomes in education and work.
“Every donor and user contributing to the exchange reduces the carbon footprint and waste in our community.”
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