Meldreth flies the flag for green initiatives

Established in 1994, the Eco-Schools programme has grown into a global movement, encouraging and empowering young environmentalists to make a positive impact on our planet.

Becky Bennett, Early Learners Lead and Green Flag Co-ordinator at Meldreth Manor School, said she was very proud of what the pupils had achieved. 

She said: “Every learner had the chance to contribute, which was central to our approach. By adapting activities to meet our pupils’ individual needs, we’ve seen them develop confidence, teamwork skills, environmental awareness and a stronger connection with nature, while taking ownership of meaningful projects across the school.”

The school’s successful application focused on three key areas: Biodiversity, Litter and School Grounds. Through a range of activities and initiatives, pupils were encouraged to develop a greater understanding of the natural world while helping care for their environment.

In its assessment, Green Flag judges praised the positive impact the programme has had across the school community.

They highlighted the value of having “a common goal that the whole school is working towards”, saying it had given students “a strong sense of unity and purpose”. Assessors noted that outdoor learning and a focus on nature had improved wellbeing and helped children to feel calmer, more connected and more confident, while strengthening the school’s culture and ensuring every learner felt part of something meaningful.

Becky said another benefit was seeing pupils from different year groups – whose ages ranged from six to post-16 - work together with the support of staff representatives.

She added: “The award provides us with an opportunity to come together without any real preconceived expectations. We have an idea of the direction an activity might take us but very often they’re pupil led and they’re encouraged to build in their own interests.”

The award panel also commended the school’s inclusive approach. Particular praise was given to the way the Environmental Review was shared with every class, ensuring all learners could contribute ideas and have their voices heard. 

“We had the pupils on a rolling rota,” said Becky, “so that everyone could join in”.

Alongside more formal meetings, a number of ad hoc activities were organised throughout the year, such as outdoor assemblies and events in the music garden. 

“We tried to make it as accessible as possible for as many as possible,” said Becky.

School initiatives recognised by Green Flag included the creation of wildflower seed bombs to support insects and pollinators, and a student-led poster competition encouraging drivers to switch off engines while waiting outside school. Assessors said both projects demonstrated how simple actions can make a meaningful difference to local wildlife, air quality and the wider environment.

Becky said: “We’re incredibly lucky at Meldreth to be surrounded by beautiful countryside and it’s been about building that connection with nature for our children. It boosts their wellbeing and helps give all of us a deeper understanding of our immediate environment.

“We had one young boy who was quite hesitant around touching nature, like the soil. It was really lovely to see his journey progress as time went on because the pressure was off. He felt confident and safe enough to push his own boundaries. 

“It’s about providing experiences such as this for the pupils, which hopefully stay with them and that we can reflect back later, in conversations.”

Pictured top: pupils Willow and Danny