A top prize in the first annual Eco-Schools Awards organised by environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful has been won by St Patrick's Primary and Nursery.

All nominees were from schools that proudly fly the Green Flag – the top accolade in the international Eco-Schools programme which recognises the achievements and commitment of the whole school to Learning for Sustainability.

St Patrick’s Primary and Nursery scooped the Eco-Committee of the Year 2023 Award.

The Eco-Committee is a group of motivated pupils of all ages which meets twice a month to talk about environmental issues in the school community – the young people lead all their own activities. They have successfully raised awareness and sensitivity to the environment in their community and the wider world.

They actively motivate others within the school community and set up and run a pop-up 'Sustainable Fashion Shop' on the back of learning about the impact of fashion on the aquatic environment in particular. ​

Gemma McBride, Depute Headteacher, St Patrick's Primary School Coatbridge, said: “We’re delighted to receive the Eco-Committee of the Year 2023 Award from Keep Scotland Beautiful, recognising the achievements of our pupil-led committee.   

“Our motivated children have been successful raising awareness of the challenges our environment faces, and coming up with innovative ways they can help – from running a sustainable fashion shop to encouraging others to walk to school.  

“The pupils have loved their journey and are committed to doing more in the coming year with the continued support from Miss O’Neill.”

The Eco-Committee also identified the need to encourage walking to school to reduce road pollution and through workshops and assemblies, highlighted how air pollution from traffic is a pressing threat to everyone’s health. As a result, there was an actual increase in the number of children walking to school with their friends and carers.  

Daniel Barrie, Education and Learning Manager at Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “It is our privilege to inspire and work with the thousands of children, young people and educators in schools across Scotland who are working tirelessly to progress climate change and environmental education action and Learning for Sustainability.

“Many educators, young people and children have been doing amazing work in their schools and communities, through the Eco-Schools programme, which has been running in Scotland since 1992.  Parents and educators of schools that hold a current Green Flag – were invited to make nominations to one of three categories in the inaugural Eco-Schools Awards and we were impressed with all the entries.

“I’d like to say a massive congratulations to St Patrick’s Primary and Nursery school, in particular the members of the Eco-Committee, and look forward to continuing our work to inspire action as we head towards the future – a clean, green and sustainable future.”

With a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, 'The Plan for North Lanarkshire' seeks to reduce carbon emissions, enhance green spaces, and protect the natural environment for future generations.