Pupils at Cross Ash Primary School have proven their green credentials after being awarded a top eco award.

Cross Ash have been awarded the prestigious Platinum+ Flag Award again, after previously gaining three Green Flag Awards thanks to the environmental education programme, Eco-Schools.

Eco-Schools is an international programme run in Wales by environmental charity, Keep Wales Tidy and funded by the Welsh Government.

The Eco-Schools programme inspires and empowers pupils to be leaders of change in their community, helping them learn about sustainable living and global citizenship while giving them the information and support they need to make changes that will benefit their school, local environment and wider community, such as reducing waste, energy consumption, transport, biodiversity, healthy living and litter issues.

As part of their Eco-Schools Platinum assessment, Cross Ash pupils and community completed a variety of events throughout the school year including a whole school Big Battery Hunt, various home learning Eco challenges during lockdown including a focus on Fairtrade and the RSPB’s Bird Watch alongside a focus on reducing litter around the school grounds.

Mrs. Goddard Eco-Coordinator, said: “The children, staff and school community have been working hard throughout the academic year on various Eco projects and we are really delighted that we have been able to renew our Platinum status for another year.”

Bryony Bromley, Education Officer for Keep Wales Tidy said: “The Platinum Flag is a very impressive achievement and highlights the enthusiasm and commitment that Cross Ash has towards sustainable development. The dedication of the Eco-Committee over many years has been inspirational. I’d like to congratulate and thank all of the pupils and staff involved for their hard work!”

Following the award, Cross Ash Primary Headteacher said: “I am delighted that the hard work of our staff, pupils, parents and the wider community have been recognised with this award. We are sure that our children will continue to do everything they can to protect the environment throughout their lives as a result of the projects they have taken part in.

“It is lovely that their work and ideas are being shared across all schools in Wales, and we are so proud of them!”

For more information on the Eco-Schools programme, visit www.keepwalestidy.org/eco-schools