Eco Schools Programme

The Eco Schools Programme is an international award scheme that helps schools become more environmentally friendly. In Northern Ireland it is run by Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful.

The programme encourages pupils and staff to take practical steps to live more sustainably. Schools get support through learning materials, planning tools and the well-known Green Flag Award.

Schools who wish to take part in the Eco Schools Programme should register at: www.eco-schoolsni.org.

There are three levels of award: Bronze, Silver and Green Flag.

Schools can choose from 11 topics including:

• Biodiversity
• Climate Action
• Energy                                                                                        
• Global Perspective
• Healthy Living
• Litter
• Marine
• Outdoor Learning
• Transport
• Waste
• Water

Local School's Green Flag Success

In June 2024 a special Eco-Schools celebration event was held at Stranmillis College, Belfast to mark thirty years of the Eco-Schools Programme’s . Thirty four schools in our district who received their first green flag, or renewed it in 2023-24, were invited to the event. Their achievements were recognised by Eco-SchoolsNI. Our Chairperson, Councillor Pete Burns attended the event in person to congratulate our local schools on their achievement as they were presented with their Green Flags.

A number of special awards were also presented on the day for the Newry, Mourne and Down district.

Eco-Teacher of the Year:  Rob Belt, Bessbrook Primary School

Eco-School of the Year:  Glasswater Primary School

Eco-Pupil of the Year: Leo McQuaid, Bessbrook Primary School