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Eco-Schools is an international award scheme for schools that aim to promote positive environmental attitudes, action and awareness.

As well as raising the profile of the school within the community it is also an environmental management programme that can be incorporated into school planning. The scheme is administered in the UK by ENCAMS (Environmental Campaigns) and upon registration, schools receive a resource pack which contains information on the following:

• Litter
• Waste minimisation
• Energy
• Water
• Transport
• Healthy Living
• School grounds
• Biodiversity
• Global perspective

The topics are cross linked with all areas of the curriculum, which should have a positive impact on environmental behaviour. The scheme fits in well with other projects that the school may already be involved in. For example, Healthy Schools, Environmental Challenge, Citizenship and School Travel Plans.

How it works

Eco-Schools takes a 'whole school' approach involving teachers, non- teaching staff, governors and the community - parents, media and local businesses. It encourages team work and helps to create a shared understanding of what it takes to run a school in a way that respects and enhances the environment. Everyone can make small improvements that will affect the environment in a positive way. The awards scheme encourages, rewards and accredits those schools that have taken steps to make environmental action an integral part of the school ethos.

Benefits of the scheme

The programme can help schools to improve their environment, reduce litter and waste, reduce energy and water bills, devise efficient ways of travelling to and from school, promote healthy lifestyles and encourage citizenship.

Eco-Schools offer schools:

• Favourable recognition of the scheme by school inspectors. It is Ofsted approved.
• Potential financial savings from reduced water, fuel and waste disposal bills.
• Curriculum links with many subjects
• An improved school environment and a reduction in the amount of litter
• Increased environmental awareness amongst pupils and staff
• Opportunities for local and national publicity.

As an international scheme, it provides many opportunitites for schools to forge links with other schools abroad, increasing a range of language and correspondence skills. There is also the potential to set up a local network that will provide encouragement and opportunities to share best practice with Knowsley Eco-Schools.

Eco-Schools in Knowsley

The Eco-Schools Project is an important part of the local authority's agenda for tackling environmental issues. In addition, schools have access to specialist support from Knowsley Council officers, including topical lessons on themes such as recycling, advice to pupils and school staff and opportunities for schools to be involved in a variety of creative projects. Several schools in Knowsley are already registered onto the Eco- Schools programme. You can search to find out if your school or a neighbouring school are already registered via the Eco-Schools website link below.

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