Melvich Primary achieves Eco Schools Green Flag accreditation for excellence in sustainable education
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Far north school Melvich primary has achieved its first Green Flag accreditation after the "fantastic" addition of a timber tunnel for growing plants in the playground.
Local craftsperson Al Whitworth from Skerray came to the 37-pupil school to help erect a custom-made timber tunnel in the school playground.
The project was made possible after funding was secured from energy company SSE by the parent council.
A great deal of planning and preparation from staff and pupils brought the project to life, particularly members of the eco committee who are passionate to develop outdoor learning and encourage biodiversity in the school.
This project was a milestone in the committee's plan to achieve Green Flag status – a visible indication of a school's commitment to learning for sustainability and an internationally recognised accreditation for excellence in sustainable education.
While the timber tunnel was nearing completion, principal teacher Amanda Mackay heard that the school had successfully achieved its first Eco Schools Scotland Green Flag.
P7 pupil and eco committee member Mati Ilski said: “We are very happy to be an Eco School and have our Green Flag. We were so excited when Miss Mackay told us the news! The timber tunnel looks really good and we’re looking forward to planting lots of things in it in the spring.”
Depute head teacher Jane MacKintosh said: “The timber tunnel is a fantastic addition to our outdoor space. We are extremely grateful to Strathy North Community Fund for helping us achieve our goal of having a space for our children to grow their own fruit and vegetables.
"The well thought out design will also enable us to use the space in many other ways such as a quiet reading space or a place to be creative in other areas of the curriculum. In Melvich primary we value the importance of outdoor education for all the pupils and ensure they receive high quality learning experiences in a variety of settings.
"Staff and parents work closely and strive to make these opportunities possible. The timber tunnel was part of the eco committee’s plan, and I must acknowledge the tremendous amount of work they have done in the past year to secure our Green Flag status which coincidentally was achieved at the same time as the completion of our timber tunnel."
