Eco-Schools
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Last year, we shared with you that our school made the decision to become an Eco-School, and we have been working hard towards the Green Flag accreditation ever since. |
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Eco-Schools Programme
With the world beginning to experience the effects of climate change - different species of plant and animals becoming extinct every day; and micro-plastics being found in the most remote locations on Earth - now is the time to educate our children about the impact of our actions on the planet we call home.
The Eco-Schools programme does this through providing a simple seven-step framework that has been designed to raise awareness of environmental issues whilst empowering young people to make a positive difference by taking a lead on environmental actions and projects in our school and local community.
The Eco-Schools programme began in 1994 and is now delivered in more than 70 countries. The programme not only positively impacts our planet (for example schools participating in the programme planted 50,188 trees during the last academic year), it also benefits young people, building teamwork and leadership skills whilst increasing their confidence and reducing eco-anxiety.
Eco-School Programme
To become an Eco-School and achieve Green Flag accreditation, we will follow a structured process that involves the following seven key steps to create a sustainable and environmentally friendly culture:
- Commitment to Sustainability:An Eco-Committee is formed, responsible for leading the project and ensuring that sustainability is integrated into school life.
- Environmental Review: The Eco-Committee conducts an environmental review to assess the current environmental practices at RLA. This involves looking at areas such as energy use, water consumption, waste management and biodiversity. The review helps identify strengths and areas for improvement.
- Action Links: Based on the environmental review, the Eco-Committee will create an action plan. This plan outlines specific goals and actions to improve environmental practices in key areas, such as reducing waste, saving energy, or enhancing green spaces.
- Curriculum Links: Sustainability is incorporated into the curriculum to educate children about environmental issues and solutions. This may include lessons on recycling, climate change, or biodiversity, helping to raise awareness and inspire us all to take action.
- Informing and Involving: Engaging the local community in eco-initiatives. This will involve parents, local organisations, and businesses in activities like tree planting, clean-up events, or educational workshops to build a strong connection between the school and its surroundings.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Impact will be monitored regularly, keeping track of improvements and setbacks. Evaluation will help ensure that the action plan is effective and provides opportunities for adjustments as needed.
- Eco-Code: The final task for our Eco-Committee is creating an Eco-Code.
By completing these seven steps, Revoe will not only work towards receiving the Green Flag accreditation but will foster a culture of environmental responsibility that benefits students, staff and the wider community.
Our Eco-Journey
As a school, we have already made a great start on our eco-journey. The children have recently taken part in a switch-off day, where the whole school worked together to create an eco-pledge.
We have now chosen eco-warriors from each class to help to lead the changes we are making this year, from simple steps such as ensuring we switch off lights, to bigger changes like using less resources and improving our recycling.
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Whilst all staff are part of our eco-journey, certain staff members have now become our eco-champions and are working closely to support our eco-warriors. A key part of the Eco-Schools process is involving our entire school and wider community so we will be keeping you updated via our school website, newsletter and dojo.
Thank you for your support on this exciting journey!
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