Thea, Annabel, Milly, Charmaine & Polly (UVI) are pleased to report that following the launch of an ‘Eco-group’, (which is open to all year groups, encouraging as many girls as possible to get involved), focus continues to be on the main goal of working towards an ‘Eco-Schools Green Flag’.

As Thea explains, "Eco-Schools is a seven-step framework, helping guide us through the process of creating meaningful change around school. One of the first actions we took was completing an environmental review of school. This included ten checklists, covering ten topics ranging from energy usage to biodiversity. To ensure the whole school community was engaged with this process we allocated each house two checklists to complete. Having highlighted any areas in need of more attention, we have since selected three topics to focus on over the next year – waste management, energy usage, and marine life (plastics and chemicals).

Within each topic we will decide on one main project to pursue, which will be confirmed in our first meeting in September. We plan to create notice boards in houses and main school where we will update everyone on our progress as well as providing statistics on how we are improving as a school. Most importantly, there will be a suggestions box where anyone can propose any ideas they may have in relation to becoming a more sustainable school. We’ll then discuss these at each of our eco-group meetings, hopefully incorporating them into our projects and plans.

Over the last term we have met with many different members of staff to fully understand the current strategies and plans within school. We have been reassured there are already many initiatives in place as well as plans for the near future including electric car charging points, solar panels, and more LED light bulbs around school. It has been incredibly encouraging to receive such positive feedback from everyone and we are looking forward to seeing lots of exciting changes next year."

The Eco Awards forms part of our 150th Anniversary Projects and we will continue share further updates as this progresses.