Dame Bradbury's Junior School in Saffron Walden has received an award for going "above and beyond" to create a sustainable environment.

The school was awarded the Eco-Schools Green Flag certification with distinction in recognition of their environmental consciousness and commitment to sustainable practices.

Pupils from Reception to Year 6 formed an eco-committee, identifying three key focus areas for improvement within the school: reducing waste, encouraging eco-friendly travel and enhancing the sustainability of the school grounds.

Watering produce in the Dame Bradbury's greenhouseWatering produce in the Dame Bradbury's greenhouse (Image: Dame Bradbury's Junior School)

Over the last year, the committee has launched numerous campaigns, including 'Cut Your Carbon Month' and 'Walk to School Week', which saw more than 100 pupils take part.

The school's mission of looking after the planet has popularised a gardening club, resulting in the increased use of the school's greenhouse and flourishing gardens.

Dame Bradbury's eco-committee has also partnered with Uttlesford District Council to monitor air quality as part of the Saffron Walden Clean Air Project.

This involved using Air Aware air quality monitors to perform experiments in and around the area to check air quality measurements and identify potential improvements.

Catriona Debnam-Sharp, the teacher leading the eco-committee at Dame Bradbury’s, said: "We are extremely proud to be acknowledged for our environmental efforts.

"We have been impressed by the eagerness displayed by our pupils to make real change for the benefit of our planet.

"Their mature and inspirational attitude aligns with the school’s sustainability ethos, and our shared goal to make the world a better and brighter place.

"It has been amazing to see the school community come together, and I hope that the pupils’ initiative will inspire others."

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Dame Bradbury's Junior School is part of the Stephen Perse Foundation, which is a family of independent schools.

The foundation's sustainability strategy aims to help all its schools achieve net zero by 2030.

The Saffron Walden Clean Air Project is a campaign funded by DEFRA that aims to increase awareness about sources of air pollution.

In addition to monitoring air quality, pupils at schools around the town have been discouraging drivers from idling, and schools have been receiving ongoing support to facilitate more walking and cycling.