Steps Forward

We completed our work for the Bronze Eco Award two years ago, and now we are working for the Silver Award. In that two years there has been a huge change in the number of students reporting that their parents/guardians either have already got a wind turbine or solar panels, or have looked into it or are planning to get one or other. Even larger numbers have instituted family policies of turning off the tap while you brush your teeth, changing to low energy light bulbs, replacing car journeys with share lifts, bus trips or walking. Everyone seems to be working at improving their recycling habits and some are composting. One thing that we thought might have changed is the number of people cycling more. People report that they don't yet understand how the cycle lanes in Newcastle will work when the roadworks are finished. We are also horrified that the glass and cardboard recycling in Newcastle may have to stop at Easter. Of course, all this is hearsay so far. Just wait until we complete our surverys and audits!

Another Year, Another Push

the big news for 2008 is that year 9 are going to take forward our Eco Schools agenda by applying for our Silver Award. Every single student in year 9 is working away on lists of ideas leading to a focused action plan. We will be digging up the results of all the surveys from our successful Bronze Award. The Silver Award requirements ask us to move the focus beyond the school and into the community, so you can expect to be interviewed and monitored at home!