Berkswich CE Primary School is located in Stafford and has 231 pupils and 7 teachers. The school registered for the Eco-Schools programme in October 2005 and were keen to progress through the Eco-Schools programme and identified a project that would tackle the issues of waste, recycling, energy efficiency and sustainability. The Eco-Committee, representing the whole school, identified the school’s quadrangle as an ideal area in which to develop a new Environmental Centre/Learning Zone that could be used by every class in the school. Funds were required to turn an idea into reality and a successful application was made under the Currys Switched on Communities Programme.
Funds amounting to £4,988.80 were awarded to cover the cost of installing a rainwater harvesting system, low energy lighting system and a solar panel to power both systems.
The school now has a key energy efficient outdoor learning zone which is completely eco-friendly and covers the eco themes of Waste, Recycling, Energy, School Grounds and Water. The study taking place in this zone has been designed to encompass areas of the curriculum and great interest has been shown from other schools in this unique project.
The rainwater harvesting system is expected to save a massive 22,000 litres of tap water with the low energy lighting and solar panel saving an enormous 144,000 watts of electricity. The children have shown extreme pride and enthusiasm for the project. The carefully designed Environment Centre is of enormous educational benefit to the children and inspire pupils to increase their knowledge of the environment and recycling.
What Currys have to say:
Clare Brine, Community Affairs Manager for Currys said: “We are dedicated to our partnership with Eco-Schools and educating consumers of the future about the value of energy efficiency and recycling. It is heartening to see our younger generations displaying genuine interest in environmental issues and Currys supports them whole-heartedly. Congratulations to Berkswich CE for being awarded this grant.”
Currys Switched on Communities - Future Applications
Please note that at the present time priority will be given to projects that clearly demonstrate an energy efficiency element or identify technology solutions to environmental improvements.
| Green Flag: | 1,179 |
| Silver: | 3,907 |
| Bronze: | 4,649 |
