These are core concepts within the International Framework of Eco-Schools Scotland and remain unchanged for all sectors of education. Elements 1 to 3 are structural in that they need to take place in the order given. The other four must be developed as integral outcomes as the Eco-School works towards every level of award.
Secondary schools must ensure that these seven elements are in place before applying for an award.
Information about the seven core elements can be found in the main section of the guide which also contains additional guidelines for the secondary sector. Support for secondary schools in regard to the Eco Code, Environmental Review and Linking to the Curriculum is given in Secondary Appendices 1, 2, 3 and 5.
'..to enable all people throughout the world to satisfy their basic needs and enjoy a better quality of life without compromising the quality of life of future generations'.
Developing secondary pupils’ interest in sustainable development issues requires skill (it’s not ‘cool’ to be seen to be involved - although they can also be very passionate about such issues when they affect vulnerable sections of society). Eco-Schools Scotland strongly recommends that the way to attract interest is to – MAKE IT FUN!
Fun activities organised by the Eco Committee can reduce the ‘uncool’ attitude amongst teenagers and lie at the heart of the work of our most successful secondary Eco-Schools:
|
trash fashion shows (boys in black plastic kilts!) |
|
anti-litter competitions and prizes (The Golden Bin – prize for first pupil to drop litter in selected bin) |
|
fancy-dress environment walks and/or litter picks |
|
community litter picks |
|
carbon-neutral discos (half ticket price buys a tree for the school grounds) |
|
‘Live Earth’-style carbon-neutral battle of the bands |
|
lucky dip plastic bottle recycling |
|
adopt a local beach, community garden, park or beauty spot for restoration and outdoor learning |
Communication is the main tool here – keep pupils and staff informed via assemblies, newsletters, school website, and information to parents. Minutes, agendas and the Action Plan should be clearly displayed on the Eco-Schools notice board and opportunities made available for all pupils to suggest possible areas of growth, change, and development within the school and community environment.
Making clear links with other school programmes – citizenship, enterprise, Fair Trade, health promotion, international links, pupil support and general curricular links – will ensure the Eco-Schools programme is not seen in isolation but as supporting and contributing to the overall educational experience of pupils.
|
