PUPILS at Cradoc primary have proven their green credentials after being awarded a top eco award.

Cradoc have been awarded the prestigious Platinum Flag Award after previously gaining three Green Flag Awards thanks to the environmental education programme, Eco-Schools.

Eco-Schools is an international programme run in Wales by environmental charity, Keep Wales Tidy and funded by the Welsh Government. Over 90% of schools in Wales are registered on the programme.

The Eco-Schools programme inspires and empowers pupils to be leaders of change in their community. It helps them learn about sustainable living and global citizenship while giving them the information and support they need to make changes that will benefit their school, local environment and wider community.

As part of their Eco-Schools Platinum assessment, pupils at Cradoc have been learning about local and global environmental issues with the Brecknock Wildlife Trusts’ ‘Wildlife Watch’ initiative. They have built a home-made solar panel on the year six classroom.

Class Teacher Nic Aldridge, said: “It has been an amazing journey, and over several years we have been fortunate enough to have so many remarkable pupils contribute. It is wonderful that we are now having a, ‘Green Day,’ to give everyone the chance to celebrate this achievement.

Jake Castle, Education Officer for Keep Wales Tidy said: “The Platinum Flag is a very impressive achievement and highlights the enthusiasm and commitment that Cradoc has towards sustainable development. The dedication of the Eco-Committee over many years has been inspirational. I’d like to congratulate and thank all of the pupils and staff involved for their hard work!”

Carl Sargeant AM, Minister for Natural Resources said: “Many congratulations to the pupils and teachers in all the schools for achieving this prestigious award.  I’m delighted that the Welsh Government has been able to fund Keep Wales Tidy to operate the Eco-Schools programme in Wales.  By doing so, many thousands of children and young people across Wales are learning about their environment and the many benefits it brings us in terms of clean air to breathe, clean water to drink and healthy soils in which to grow flowers, trees and crops. Pupils taking part in the programme have gained skills and are better equipped to deal with the future challenges we face through climate change and make better decisions to ensure our natural resources continue to provide benefits for future generations.”