Nanstallon Young People Lead the Way on Climate Action

Pupils at Nanstallon School, near Bodmin, have joined young people at thousands of schools across the UK who are taking positive climate action as part of the Eco-Schools programme.

Fifteen pupils at Nanstallon School focused on waste, biodiversity and energy. Activities were designed around these themes to expand learning opportunities for everyone in the school.

Involving young people in the Eco-Schools project offers many benefits that extend beyond the classroom. Participation helps develop environmental awareness and gives young people the knowledge to make sustainable choices and build positive habits for the future.

"Engaging in these activities enhances academic performance by linking learning to real-world issues. Subjects such as science and geography become more relevant and meaningful for pupils." – Charlotte Clarke, Eco-Club Lead

Collaborative decision-making and ensuring the authentic voice of the child is heard are central to the ethos of Nanstallon School.

Ben Stephenson, Headteacher at Nanstallon Primary School, said:

"This project has deepened the children's sense of purpose, responsibility and ownership of their environment."

One of the biggest achievements was the planting of 20 new trees in a new school orchard. This was made possible by working closely with local gardener George Kestel, with support from parents and pupils Ether Clarke and Leon Gilbert. Cornwall Council also supported the project, with Ben Norward supplying three different species of tree suitable for the school grounds.

"This was all about engaging in a national project of global value that connects environmental education and action. It demonstrates how a small cog, at a local level, can make a big difference." - Ben

The Eco-Schools is designed to be pupil-led. The Eco-Schools Green Flag is an annual accreditation that recognises and celebrates the efforts of young people within their school community.

Nanstallon School has now been awarded Green Flag with Distinction status, funded by Cornwall Council, an achievement that pupils are rightly proud of.

"I just love learning new things. I have learnt so much about taking care of the environment that I will keep doing forever. I'd love to continue doing things like composting in the future. It's easy and really helps you live in a positive way." - Seren, a member of the Eco-Club in Year 4.

Eco-Club gives all young people a voice and helps those who are quieter to develop the confidence to express themselves and share their ideas.