Hathershaw College wins prestigious conservation award

Hathershaw College has been awarded the Chester Zoo Outstanding Conservation School Award, a significant recognition under the Chester Zoo Outstanding Conservation Education Awards programme.

This prestigious award was presented to Mrs Lott, the school's Sustainability Lead, during a celebratory ceremony last week.

Mrs Lott attended the event and was honoured to receive the award on behalf of Hathershaw's dedicated Student Eco Committee.

The school was one of only three finalists nationwide, highlighting the significant impact of their environmental initiatives.

The Hathershaw College Eco Committee, composed of environmentally conscious students, meets each half term to drive the school’s sustainability efforts.

This year, they launched a 'no idling' campaign aimed at reducing unnecessary vehicle emissions around the school, complemented by educational posters that encourage parents to turn off their engines during student pick-ups.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to foster a cleaner, healthier environment in the local community.

In addition to local campaigns, the committee also shows a strong commitment to global environmental issues.

They recently organized a fundraiser for Water Aid to support global access to clean water, demonstrating their understanding of and commitment to addressing global water scarcity.

The Pinnacle Trust's first Eco Conference, held on April 24 at Hathershaw, was another highlight of their environmental advocacy, bringing together students from the Pinnacle Trust’s schools.

The event culminated in the creation of a trust-wide eco code and the planting of trees around the school grounds, in cooperation with the Woodland Trust.

Hathershaw students have also explored conservation themes through the arts.

The drama club produced an impactful theatrical performance on environmental conservation, which was showcased at the eco conference, using the arts to engage and educate the community on sustainability issues.

This award from Chester Zoo recognises Hathershaw College not just as a school, but as a community of young leaders, educators, and activists fervently committed to conservation.

The school’s ongoing projects and initiatives continue to make tangible impacts both locally and globally, embodying the spirit of sustainability that the Chester Zoo Outstanding Conservation School Award seeks to commend.

Hathershaw College continues to lead by example in the field of environmental education and action, inspiring students and the community alike to strive for a sustainable and thriving planet.

Mark Giles, Principal, said: “I am absolutely delighted that our school have been considered worthy winners of this award. 

"Hathershaw and the wider trust take their responsibility to the environment, sustainability and conservation extremely seriously, recognising that we have one planet and one chance to limit the impact we have on it. 

"Our young people are heavily invested in this agenda and work closely with Mrs Lott on a variety of related issues. 

"This award means the world to us, particularly on a national and prestigious platform.”

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