Surrey schools lead the way in environmental education for third year running 

Surrey County Council is proud to announce that it continues to lead the way in environmental education, holding the highest number of Eco-Schools Green Flag awards in England for the third consecutive year.  

Over 175 schools in Surrey are actively participating in the Eco-Schools programme with 101 schools having earned the highest accreditation in the scheme. This achievement is testament to the engagement of over 51,000 pupils and around 2,200 students playing a direct role in the school’s sustainability journey. 

Eco-Schools is the largest education programme in the world which helps sustainability become an integral part of school life. Eco-Schools is pupil lead, supports the enrichment of the curriculum and helps unite young people and the wider school community to care more about protecting the environment and making positive changes. 

Activities that have taken place include: 

• Running energy-saving “switch off” campaigns 
• Taking lessons outdoors to connect with nature 
• Building bug hotels and bird boxes  
• Installing solar panels 
• Growing fruit and vegetables on school grounds 
• Creating ponds to boost biodiversity 
• Planting trees to improve air quality and attract wildlife 
• Designing bin signage to improve recycling 
• Installing water butts to harvest rainwater 
• Monitoring energy, water use, and sustainable transport 

By implementing these projects, the schools and families will benefit in the short, medium and long term. Key achievements over the last year include:  

• 90,645 tonnes of waste diverted from landfill 
• 129,417 m² of natural habitat created or maintained 
• 8,887 pupils engaged in active travel initiatives 
• Over £25,139 raised for school environmental projects 

Marisa Heath, Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Environment said: “I am delighted Surrey has been recognised for the third year running as being a leader in environmental education. It’s our responsibility to not only educate young people about climate change but empower and enable them to make a real difference. Eco-Schools is a proven platform to help young people make a difference in their school and local community, an initiative we have been behind for the last 12 years. 

“We are continuing to invest and support schools to navigate the effects climate change has in the classroom, such as classes overheating in the summer, flooding and becoming more sustainable.” 

Jonathan Hulley, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning said: “I’m thrilled that Surrey’s children and young people, and their educators, have yet again embraced the Eco-Schools programme. Through developing their interests and skills in environmental matters, not only are they benefiting as individuals, but they are also positively impacting their schools and communities.” 

Adam Flint, Education Manager for Eco-Schools England said: “Surrey schools are leading the way when it comes to climate action. This year, an amazing 101 schools achieved the Eco-Schools accreditation across the region.  

“This success is testament to a region of proactive, dynamic and dedicated young people, supported by brilliant schools staff and their passionate local authorities. Their work has energised their local communities, inspiring region-wide action and bringing a can-do attitude to the fight against climate change. The whole of Surrey can be proud!”