Planet-saving action is coming to Newlands Primary Academy as part of a nationwide campaign.
Pupils and teachers at Newlands Primary Academy have been awarded £200 to kickstart their great green project, thanks to funder OVO Foundation and the Let’s Go Zero campaign, a national campaign for all UK schools, colleges and nurseries to be zero carbon by 2030.
The school beat hundreds of others to win one of 25 prizes, which will bring to life their vision of sustainability, wildlife watching and sensory benefits.
The Nature Prize is awarded to schools that are engaging students with nature and supporting less advantaged children and wider communities to get involved in climate action. Let’s Go Zero is a national campaign led by climate solutions charity Ashden.
Newlands is transforming a disused space into a calm, nature filled area for their SEND students, particularly those who find mainstream classrooms difficult.
Students will take charge of designing and monitoring the space, choosing planting that encourages plenty of visiting wildlife.
Acting Head teacher, Debbie Farbrace, said: “We’re thrilled to receive the Let’s Go Zero and OVO Foundation Nature Prize. This recognition allows us to inspire our pupils and community about the importance of reducing carbon emissions, creating spaces for nature and minimising waste. All schools across the UK should work collectively to take meaningful climate action.”
Su Moore, Head of OVO Foundation said: “OVO Foundation are proud to continue supporting the Nature Prize. Through the inventiveness and diversity of the funded projects, we’re truly able to see our mission of a greener, brighter future for the next generation come to life.”
Alex Green, Head of Let’s Go Zero Campaign, said: “These 25 schools have put forward incredible plans to boost the biodiversity in their schools and make sure students have beautiful places to learn, connect with nature and share with their communities. We were so impressed by their plans and enthusiasm and hope they inspire other schools to do the same.”
The OVO Foundation Nature Prize is part of OVO Foundation’s Climate Changers programme launched in 2022.
Over the last three years, 75 schools taking climate action through the competition have brought more than 37,000 children closer to nature. This year saw a record number of entries.
