Teachers encouraged to join Eco-schools programme

The Eco-Schools programme is an international initiative designed to encourage whole-school action for the environment.

It is a recognised award scheme that accredits schools who make a commitment to continuously improve their environmental performance. It is also a learning resource that raises awareness of environmental and sustainable development issues through activities linked to the curriculum.

The aim of the programme is to make environmental awareness and action an intrinsic part of the life and ethos of the school for both pupils and staff and to engage the wider community.

Involvement in the eco-schools programme requires a simple seven-step process which helps them to address a variety of environmental themes, ranging from litter and waste to healthy living and biodiversity.

Lindsay Matthews, the Council’s Biodiversity Officer said: “Joining the Eco-Schools programme is free and it makes tackling sustainable issues manageable and easy for all schools, whether they are nurseries, primary schools, post-primary schools or schools with special status.

“I would encourage local teachers to attend the meeting as they will gain some valuable ideas with regard to how eco-schools can help their school become more environmentally aware.”

For more information, contact Lindsay Matthews on Tel: 028 9034 0069 or email: [email protected]