Published on:
29
April 2013
St. Serf's Primary in Tullibody have gained their Fourth Eco Schools Green Flag, it was announced this week.
The Eco Committee, which comprises pupils, parents and staff, have been working hard to raise environmental awareness and embed it into the life and work of the school.
Congratulating the school on their achievement, Education Convener, Councillor Ellen Forson, said: "The school has focussed on issues relating to school grounds, litter, energy, transport, health and well-being, waste minimisation, sustainability, biodiversity, food and the environment and water.
"A great deal of work has been undertaken and as a result the school is now a litter free zone. I would like to offer my congratulations on what is a magnificent achievement in gaining four green flags."
The playground has football pitches, murals, an adventure trail, a walkway and seating area.
Waste minimisation has been developed through 'reduce, reuse and recycle' and the introduction of composting and continuous work on recycling.
A water butt has been installed in the playground to collect water which is used to water plants in and around the school. Biodiversity has also been developed and pupils have planted a vegetable patch, wildlife garden with 'bug hotels' and an orchard where the pupils planted eight fruit trees, a mixture of apple and plum.
They have encouraged local wildlife to visit the school by putting up bird and butterfly houses and they have recently been involved in the RSPCB's Little Schools Bird Watch.
Following their assessment visit, the Eco schools Scotland assessors were 'impressed by the whole school involvement that is achieved through class eco responsibilities, curriculum links, competitions and events.
The assessors also commented on the recognition of the importance of collecting data on a regular basis so that the impact of the efforts made by the school could be measured. With this information the whole school are able to celebrate success.
Councillor Forson added: "During their visit it was evident that all classes were keen to explain the role they play in driving forward the school's eco plans and that they feel that they are making a difference."
Jasmine Rose from primary seven said: "When I found out we had been awarded our fourth green flag I felt happy because we had put a lot of hard work into achieving it."
Aimee from P6 added: "I thought it was really exciting showing the visitors around the school and explaining what we had been doing to make our school Eco friendly."