Bluecoat Aspley Academy’s Eco Committee has been awarded an amazing £41,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for the Wilding Campuses project, delivered by Students Organising for Sustainability (SOS-UK).
The project will create more sustainable and wildlife-friendly spaces in schools, colleges and universities across Nottingham.
The grant will enable the school to transform its grounds, creating green spaces that will serve as vital habitats for local wildlife. This is part of the Wilding Campuses pilot project, Bluecoat Aspley is one of just three campuses chosen – alongside The University of Nottingham and Nottingham College. The project will not just enhance the environmental and sustainability of the school grounds it also provides students with opportunities for outdoor learning and hands-on experience in environmental stewardship, it also leads the way for other schools to make their campus better for the environment.
In August, the school was awarded the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag Award, achieving the honour with a distinction. The award reflects its exceptional commitment to environmental education and sustainable practices. The accolade is a benchmark for environmental excellence in education, and achieving a distinction places the academy among the top schools in the country for its work.
The school’s Eco Committee, a dedicated group of students, has been instrumental in driving environmental awareness and action within the academy. Their achievements include hosting an Eco Week, working with organisations like Friends of the Earth, and holding meetings with local councillors and MP Lilian Greenwood to discuss pressing environmental concerns.
Amy Underwood, Head of Geography and Sustainability Lead at Bluecoat Aspley Academy, said: “I am absolutely thrilled for the Eco Committee. The Green Flag Award with Distinction and this substantial funding highlight the incredible work of our students. This grant will provide further opportunities for hands-on learning, helping our students to not only appreciate but actively contribute to biodiversity and sustainability.”
The school’s Eco Committee, who meet weekly, are determined to make tangible changes within their school to ensure it operates in an environmentally friendly manner. Their initiatives have had a significant impact, from leading Acts of Worship focused on environmental activism and stewardship, to designing activities during Eco Week that engaged the entire school in sustainability efforts.
In addition to their school-wide initiatives, the Eco Committee has also worked closely with key decision-makers in the local community, including Councillor Lux, who is responsible for carbon reduction, and Councillor Dinnall, who represents the local ward. The committee’s efforts extend beyond the school as they raise awareness about environmental issues through their Green Gazette, a weekly article published on the school’s website.
One of their notable achievements includes planting a wildflower garden at the front of the school, further enhancing the biodiversity of the campus. This work has been recognised and supported by local leaders, including MP Lilian Greenwood, whom the students interviewed to discuss their sustainability plans and the environmental concerns facing the community.
Jack Warren, Head of Estates for Archway Learning Trust who supports Amy and the Eco Committee added: “Our Eco Committee is a shining example of how students can make a real difference to the sustainability of a school. Their leadership in projects such as removing plastic from the lunch offer and building wild spaces demonstrates their commitment to real, impactful change.”
Wilding Campuses is led by SOS-UK and made possible with the Heritage Fund and thanks to National Lottery players.
