Orchard House Retains Eco-Schools Green Flag
Award reflects commitment of pupils to sustainability
The children have taken responsibility for a wide range of projects
October 5, 2026
Orchard House School (OHS) has had its Eco-Schools Green Flag accreditation renewed with distinction. This recognises the work done over the last year in which its pupils have taken the lead on sustainability and shown how committed young people can shape the future of their communities.
The Eco-Schools programme, founded in 1994 and now active in more than 100 countries, encourages children to become environmental leaders through practical, pupil-driven action. In England alone it reaches over a million young people each year, helping schools embed sustainability into everyday life and giving pupils the tools to make a measurable difference.
At Orchard House, that ethos has become part of the school’s identity. Pupils have taken responsibility for a wide range of projects: regular litter picks, improvements to recycling systems, book drives, STEM initiatives such as The Great Plastics Challenge, pupil-led assemblies and even an eco-refill shop run by children in Years 5 and 6. Each project has been designed and delivered by the pupils themselves, demonstrating both creativity and a growing understanding of environmental issues at local and global level.
The school is also a Plastic Clever School Level 2 and holds the RHS School Gardening Award Level 1.
Mrs Nicola McWeeney, Head of Science and Sustainability, said she has seen a noticeable shift in awareness across the whole school. “The pupils at OHS are always so enthusiastic when it comes to environmental matters. Their knowledge and empathy for issues around the world and close to home is commendable. I have seen an increased awareness across the staff as well and our curriculum is enriched with sustainable activities.”
Eco-Schools England Manager Adam Flint praised the determination shown by young people nationwide, noting that their efforts “deserve recognition and should act as inspiration to us all.” He added that while the planet is already feeling the effects of climate change, pollution and waste, pupils across England have demonstrated that “a more sustainable future is possible.”
Further information about the Eco-Schools programme and accreditation can be found at www.eco-schools.org.uk.
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