Pupils at Oasis Academy Oldham have earned an international accreditation this academic year, recognising their amazing work in making their academy more environmentally friendly and raising eco-awareness in fellow pupils.
The Eco-Schools programme was established in 1994 and is now delivered in more than 70 countries across the globe. More than 1 million pupils attended an Eco-School in England in 2022-23.
Pupils at Oasis Academy Oldham first formed an Eco-Committee, then collaborated with Mr Woodcock to conduct an environmental review, assessing how eco-friendly their school is. They reviewed everything from biodiversity within their school grounds to how pupils and staff members travel to school. Building on their findings, pupils and Mr Woodcock then planned a year of action designed to advance their school’s green credentials, improve their local environment, and protect our planet.
The Eco-Committee connected their work to 3 Eco-Schools topics: Biodiversity, litter and the academy grounds. They then planned a variety of projects including sensory garden/garden relaxation area that will be sustainable but also support pupils with emotional/ sensory difficulties.
Staff member Miss MacAdams said, “The students at Oasis Academy Oldham have been fantastic advocates for sustainability. They have used the committee to expose all students to the impact we have in and around the academy. Students have been courageous at holding assemblies and working with Mr Woodcock and Ms Dillion to put plans in place for the sensory garden. I am really proud of their work during this first year and look forward to what is to come.”
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
