Pupils at Monk Fryston CE Primary School have once again been awarded a coveted Eco-Schools Green Flag.

The Eco-Schools Green Flag is an international accreditation that recognises efforts to raise environmental awareness amongst young people, whilst taking action to make their school more sustainable. Monk Fryston School has now retained its status as an accredited Eco-School, following their achievement last year.  

The Eco-Schools programme was established in 1994 and is now delivered in more than 70 countries across the globe. The programme prompts young people to explore a variety of environmental issues, including climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Pupils are then empowered to plan and deliver environmental actions in their school, local community, and beyond.

Since Monk Fryston School began working towards an Eco-Schools Green Flag during 2021 achievements have included reducing their carbon footprint through the installation of a Ground Source Heat Pump and solar panels, and improving their environment by collecting litter throughout the village.

And this year, pupils at Monk Fryston have built on these strong foundations, collaborating with the Headteacher, Mr Weights, to work on three Eco-Schools topics: Litter, Transport and Biodiversity. They then planned a variety of projects including appointing school litter monitors, writing to the council to request a safer road crossing, and improving habitats for creatures in the school grounds.

Staff member Mr Weights said, “Our pupils feel passionately about environmental themes. This is their planet, and they are very keen to look after it. We are proud of their achievement, and all that they do to advance the work of the school as a leader in environmental education.”

Eco-Schools England Manager, Adam Flint, said: “The Eco-Schools Green Flag award is an internationally recognised symbol of high environmental standards. The pupils and school staff that earn the award deserve immense credit for their hard work, determination, and creativity. Their passion for protecting our planet is an inspiration to us all. ”

To learn more about Eco-Schools head to www.eco-schools.org.uk