West Buckland School has achieved notable recognition by winning two silver awards at the prestigious Green Apple Awards, which celebrate exceptional environmental efforts on both national and international stages. Competing against over 1,000 nominations, the school stood out in the Environmental Best Practice category, showcasing its commitment to sustainability through impactful projects.
Innovative Environmental Initiatives
The school’s successful projects include the ‘Energy Reduction Programme’ and the ‘Sustainability in Education – Whole School Approach.’ Judges commended West Buckland for its comprehensive shift towards greener, more efficient energy options. The energy programme significantly reduced the school’s reliance on fossil fuels, introducing ten biomass boilers that now heat the buildings. The initiative has led to a substantial decrease in oil consumption, while 888 ground-mounted solar panels generate on-site power.
Commenting on the energy programme, the judges noted, “A school estate swapped fossil fuels for cleaner energy at scale. All new projects follow rigorous energy-efficient design principles. The result is a dramatic cut in emissions, lower running costs, and warm, well-lit learning spaces powered by nature.”
Furthermore, the ‘whole school approach’ integrates sustainability into all facets of learning and operations. The campus has seen enhancements in solar energy generation, food-waste monitoring, and recycling practices. Students have established an environmental and biodiversity society, achieving the Eco-Schools Green Flag with distinction and organizing events such as a Green Futures Day and a summer festival.
Recognition and Future Prospects
The Green Apple Awards ceremony took place in November 2023, hosted by former BBC Education TV presenter Phil Williams at the House of Lords. Organized by The Green Organisation, a non-profit group dedicated to promoting environmental best practices, the awards highlight the efforts of individuals, organizations, and communities committed to sustainability.
As a result of this recognition, West Buckland School has been invited to publish its winning projects in The Green Book, an esteemed international reference on environmental best practices. This exposure allows other institutions worldwide to learn from their initiatives. Additionally, the school may represent the UK in the Green World Awards 2026 and will have 100 trees planted in its name as part of the United Nations Billion Trees initiative.
This dual recognition not only underscores West Buckland School’s commitment to sustainability but also sets a benchmark for educational institutions aiming to enhance their environmental stewardship. As the school continues to lead by example, its achievements serve as inspiration for others to follow suit in the quest for a greener future.
