Wellacre Awarded Eco‑Schools Green Flag for the Third Consecutive Year

Posted at 8:34 am on 14th May, 2026

 

 

Wellacre is delighted to announce that we have once again been awarded the Eco‑Schools Green Flag, marking our third consecutive year of recognition for outstanding commitment to environmental education, sustainability, and whole‑school eco‑action. This achievement reflects the dedication of our students, staff, and wider community, who continue to embed environmental responsibility into everyday school life.

The Eco‑Schools assessor praised Wellacre for its clear and positive impact on students’ wellbeing, noting that our outdoor learning initiatives have created meaningful opportunities for young people to connect with nature, develop confidence, and build emotional resilience.

Outdoor Learning at the Heart of School Life

Outdoor learning continues to be a defining strength of Wellacre’s eco journey. This year, Forest School sessions, gardening club, and cross‑curricular outdoor activities have given pupils hands‑on experiences that support physical health, mental wellbeing, and a deeper appreciation of the natural world.

Assessors highlighted how these experiences help students thrive in calm, stimulating environments that boost concentration, engagement, and curiosity. By taking learning beyond the classroom, Wellacre has created spaces where every child can explore, reflect, and grow.

A Strong and Ambitious Healthy Living Action Plan

The Eco‑Schools team commended Wellacre’s Healthy Living Action Plan, describing it as thoughtful, ambitious, and deeply rooted in the needs of students. The development of new and improved outdoor learning spaces was recognised as an excellent approach to supporting mental health, wellbeing, and inclusive education.

These spaces allow pupils to:

• learn through sensory experiences

• develop an understanding of nature and seasonal change

• enjoy calm, reflective moments during the school day

• build positive habits that support lifelong wellbeing

The assessors noted that such environments help improve focus and engagement, giving every learner the chance to succeed.

 

Year 10 Geography: Tracking the Journey of Waste

One of the most celebrated aspects of this year’s eco work was the Year 10 Geography enquiry project. Students investigated how a single piece of litter dropped in the playground can travel through the environment, carried by wind, water, and natural barriers.

Their research explored:

• how waste moves across school grounds

• how litter can seep into soil and affect local ecosystems

• how pollutants enter streams, rivers, and eventually the ocean

• the long‑term environmental consequences of unmanaged waste

This enquiry‑based learning helped students understand the full lifecycle of litter and reinforced the importance of responsible waste management. The Eco‑Schools team described the project as excellent, engaging, and highly relevant.

Biodiversity in Every Classroom

Another highlight was the introduction of plants in all classrooms, including chilli plants and other species chosen to support biodiversity. This simple initiative has had a powerful impact.

Caring for plants encourages students to:

• develop responsibility and patience

• understand what living things need to thrive

• appreciate the role of plants in healthy ecosystems

• notice changes in growth, climate, and environment

The assessors praised this as a meaningful way to embed environmental awareness into daily routines.

Seed‑to‑Plate: Growing Food, Skills, and Confidence

Wellacre’s commitment to sustainable food education was also recognised. Many students have been actively involved in growing fruits, vegetables, and herbs and then preparing and serving them to their peers.

This seed‑to‑plate experience helps pupils:

• understand where food comes from

• learn practical gardening and cooking skills

• explore healthy eating and nutrition

• appreciate the value of nurturing something from start to finish

The Eco‑Schools team described this as heart‑warming and highly impactful, noting how it builds confidence, teamwork, and a sense of pride.

A Whole‑School Commitment to Sustainability

Achieving the Green Flag Award for the third year running is a testament to the collective effort of the entire Wellacre community. From student Eco‑Ambassadors to teaching staff, support teams, and families, everyone has played a role in championing sustainability and environmental stewardship.

This award reflects:

• consistent eco‑action across the curriculum

• strong student leadership

• meaningful community engagement

• a long‑term commitment to positive environmental change

 

Wellacre remains dedicated to inspiring young people to care for the planet, make informed choices, and lead the way in creating a more sustainable future.