Students at Cowes Enterprise College are celebrating after the school achieved the Woodland Trust’s Green Tree Schools Gold Award.
The award recognises the school’s commitment to outdoor learning, environmental awareness and helping young people develop a stronger connection with the natural world.
Students have taken part in a range of practical activities, from exploring local wildlife and improving the school grounds to learning about trees, habitats and sustainability.
As part of the programme, pupils have also been encouraged to consider the natural environment from different perspectives, including thinking about how different creatures experience the world around them.
Schools taking part in the Green Tree Schools Award collect points by completing activities such as tree planting, reducing carbon emissions and visiting woodland areas, progressing through bronze, silver and gold levels towards platinum.
The programme also supports environmental learning in the classroom, alongside gardening and eco clubs, Forest School activities and other environmental projects.
Cowes Enterprise College’s Eco Council has played a key role in the school’s work towards the award, helping to encourage other students to get involved.
Sixth Form Student Leaders said:
“We will continue our hard work to help look after every animal at Cowes, whether big or small.”
Ruth Griffiths-Nash, Head of School at Cowes Enterprise College, said:
“We are absolutely delighted to have achieved the Green Tree Schools Award.
“It is a fantastic recognition of the enthusiasm and commitment our pupils and staff have shown towards looking after our environment and making the most of the wonderful outdoor spaces around us.
“We want our young people to understand that even small actions can make a really big difference, and this award gives us a brilliant opportunity to learn, get involved and have fun while doing something positive for our Island and the planet.
“We’re incredibly proud of everyone who has played a part in achieving this award and can’t wait to see what we can do next.”
The Green Tree Schools Award is a free programme run by the Woodland Trust, providing schools with resources and support to involve students in practical environmental projects and build a lasting connection with nature.
