Eco training for teachers to address sustainability issues in schools

17 September 2010

Eco-Active will be hosting a representative from the international ‘Eco-Schools’ environmental award programme next week to run a 1-day training event for local teachers.

The Eco-Schools programme currently runs in 46 countries around the world, linking more than 40,000 schools. Once registered, schools follow a simple 7-step process which helps them to address a variety of environmental themes, ranging from litter and waste to healthy living and biodiversity.

Schools on the programme work towards gaining 1 of 3 awards – Bronze, Silver and the prestigious Green Flag award, symbolising excellence in the field of environmental activity. 20 local teachers from 17 schools are attending the training next Tuesday, 21 September 2010, to find out how the Eco-Schools programme can help tackle sustainability issues in their schools.

Schools joining the Eco-Schools programme are supported in Jersey by the Eco-Active Sustainable Schools Framework, run in partnership by the departments of Education and Environment. The framework provides practical help from over 30 local organisations, year-round grants for resources and trips, and rewards in the form of ‘Eco-Active Sustainable School’ status and sponsored prizes.

Senator Freddie Cohen, Minister for Planning and Environment says “More and more local schools are incorporating issues of sustainable development into valuable year-round learning experiences. Programmes such as Eco-Schools and the Eco-Active Sustainable Schools Framework support this work which has knock-on benefits for the environment around the school and the community as a whole.”

Schools will shortly be asked to submit their nomination forms for Eco-Active Sustainable Schools Awards sponsored by the Channel Islands Co-operative Society, the Ecology Fund, Deutsche Bank, Newtel and Connex and the 2010 Awards ceremony will be held on Wednesday 20th October at 4.00 pm at Durrell.