Final ‘roll call’ for Best Kept Schools competition

This week marks the final countdown for schools across Mid Ulster and south Tyrone to enter the 2015 Best Kept School awards.
Olivia Bradley from last years winning school shows John Laverty of Open+Direct Insurance and NI Amenity Council chair Doreen Muskett, how it's done.Olivia Bradley from last years winning school shows John Laverty of Open+Direct Insurance and NI Amenity Council chair Doreen Muskett, how it's done.
Olivia Bradley from last years winning school shows John Laverty of Open+Direct Insurance and NI Amenity Council chair Doreen Muskett, how it's done.

Each year the awards give Northern Ireland schools an opportunity to showcase their high standards of appearance and the innovative recycling and biodiversity projects they create with their pupils.

The official closing date for school entries is Friday March 13 and applications can be submitted directly to the Northern Ireland Amenity Council, which organises the awards, or online at www.niacbestkept.com.

Doreen Muskett MBE, Chairman of the Northern Ireland Amenity Council, said: “Competition for the title of Best Kept School is always intense. This year we have received over 100 entries so far for the schools category, with hopes of many more this week.

“It’s great to see such a growing interest in civic pride among school children and we wish all our entrants the best of luck. I’m sure the judges will have a difficult task determining the winners this year!”

All category winners will receive attractive signage for the school, trophies and a monetary gift.

John Laverty from award sponsors - Open+Direct Insurance - added: “The Best Kept School Award is a fantastic way for schools to get their pupils involved in the upkeep of their facility and in green projects like recycling and biodiversity.

“It’s fantastic to see such young people taking an interest in these matters and being rewarded for their work with one of these awards.”

The next Open+Direct Insurance Best Kept Awards closing date will be April 24, 2015 for the town, village and housing area categories.