Hard-working, environmentally-aware pupils at a Cockermouth school have been awarded a coveted Eco-Schools' Green Flag - with distinction.
The inspiring youngsters at All Saints' CE Primary School were delighted to hear they had earned the international accreditation.
Eco co-ordinator Yvonne Dykes said: "It's in recognition of the pupils' amazing work in making their school more environmentally friendly and raising eco-awareness in fellow pupils."
Eco-Schools is an international education programme that prompts young people to explore sustainability and climate change and take action.
Pupils collaborated with Ms Dykes to conduct an environmental review, assessing how eco-friendly their school is. They reviewed everything from the school's recycling practices, to energy usage and how environmental themes are covered in classrooms. Building on their findings, the pupils and Ms Dykes planned a year of activities that would up their green-credentials.
The group connected their work to three Eco-Schools topics: biodiversity, healthy eating and transport.
"We use reusable cutlery and plates in our canteen and the EYFS and KS1 use reusable cups rather than the little individual cartons of milk," said Ms Dykes.
"We encourage children and staff to walk or cycle to school."
Activities included taking part in the Queen's Canopy and the RSPB Big Birdwatch.
"The children have worked so hard with gaining the Eco School Status, I am so proud of them all," said MS Dykes.
She is grateful for the support from school chef Kirsty and caretaker Simon. "They have both helped so much with the children on our Eco Committee," she said.
Richard Graham, on the Year 6 Eco-School Committee, said: "Being an Eco-School is worth working for, because it's so important to save our planet - and to educate children and parents that it is not too late and we all can do something to save our planet, even just walking to school or having a meat-free day."
Eco-Schools England manager Adam Flint said: "Earning an Eco-Schools Green Flag Award takes passion, commitment and a desire to make a difference.
"Pupils should be proud of their great work.
"They're an inspiration and it makes us feel heartened and positive about the future of our planet."
Head teacher Nicola Smallwood said: "We are so proud of all our children. They have done a fantastic job of working for the Eco-School Award."
To learn more about Eco-Schools, go to: www.eco.schools.org.uk.
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