Celebrating Environmental Excellence Across Our Trust

After the incredible success of achieving the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award last year, one of our schools, D’Eyncourt Primary, is already on track to secure this prestigious award for the second year running. This achievement exemplifies the dedication and passion found across the schools in our Trust, where students and staff alike are committed to making a difference for the environment and the world around us.

At D’Eyncourt, the Eco-Committee plays a pivotal role in maintaining their Eco-Schools Green Flag status. Made up of pupils from Reception to Year 6, this inclusive committee encourages collaboration, with older students supporting younger ones to build confidence, independence, and leadership skills. The overwhelming interest in joining the committee this year speaks volumes about the culture of environmental stewardship within the school. Over 50 students applied to be part of the 16-member committee, demonstrating the enthusiasm of young people to drive positive change.

The Eco-Schools Green Flag is an internationally recognised symbol of excellence in environmental action and education. Through their efforts, the pupils showcase their commitment to sustainability during the application process, which is rigorously assessed by the Eco-Schools programme.

This year, the school’s Eco-Committee has already taken significant steps to enact their environmental goals, including participating in the ‘Cut Your Carbon’ campaign. This initiative inspired over 130 pupils to take on challenges at home during November, such as:

• Ditching the drive by completing 5 miles on foot, bike, or scooter.
• Going plant-based for one day.
• Turning down the thermostat by 1°C.
• Avoiding new purchases for a month.
• Opting for 4-minute showers instead of baths.
• Turning off electronics for an hour during a “no power hour.”

The participation and enthusiasm of students were outstanding, with many successfully completing some or all of the six tasks. The Eco-Committee was inspired by the collective effort to reduce carbon footprints and make a tangible impact on the environment.

This commitment to sustainability reflects the wider ethos of our Trust, where fostering responsible global citizens is a priority. Across our schools, small steps are being taken to build a cleaner, brighter future for all. D’Eyncourt’s Eco-Committee is already planning the next stages of their action plan, and we are excited to see what they will accomplish next.

We are immensely proud of their work and the example they set for all schools in our Trust. Together, we are building a legacy of environmental excellence and inspiring the next generation to lead the charge for positive change.