There was delight for children and colleagues at Willows Day Nursery in Aylesbury as their passion for the planet earnt them another major environmental accolade.
Having embarked on their Eco-Schools journey in 2017, children and colleagues from the setting were thrilled to earn the prestigious ‘Green Flag with Distinction’ for yet another year, following a sustained environmental project and curriculum of green topics involving all ages.
The accolade, which is the highest achievement in the programme involving children across 101 countries, recognises sustainable initiatives in nursery, which include growing herbs and vegetables to be used in homemade meals, creating habitats for wildlife, crafting with natural and recycled materials and taking part in litter picking sessions around their local area.
The setting also boasts an on-site woodland, where children enjoy Forest School sessions, designed to nurture self-esteem, as well as encourage problem solving skills and risk taking in a safe, secure setting. From building dens and campfires, to carving wood and embarking on nature hunts, the forest provides the perfect space to get close to nature whilst developing motor skills, communication and language and cognitive function.
Willows also has its own dedicated Eco-Committee, which is led by devoted colleagues and a number of a number of Pre-School children who take a lead role in ensuring the rest of nursery is environmentally considerate by ensuring resources like paper aren’t wasted, taps are not left running and that knowledge is shared.
Forest School Leader, Lucy Spencer explained;
“We’re incredibly proud to have achieved the Green Flag with Distinction once again. Caring for the environment is something that’s woven into everyday life at Willows, and it’s wonderful to see the children so enthusiastic about making a positive difference. This award is a fantastic recognition of the dedication shown by both our children and colleagues, and we’re excited to continue building on everything we’ve achieved together.”
