Eco-Schools the environmental education and action charity has awarded Merley First School its second Green Flag.

Students worked through the year to improve their local environment and raise awareness about green issues.

It culminated with the Eco-Schools charity awarding Merley another green flag which it proudly flies from a flagpole outside the school.

Despite the challenges of COVID the children chose some eco-warriors amongst themselves who led assemblies and drove the initiatives.

Class suggestions including litter-picking and making bee areas have been adopted and the pupils are helping to protect some special orchids that grow near the school.

The school is part of Wimborne Academy Trust (WAT) and headteacher Katharine Anstey said: “Our children have really got involved with all the environmental learning.

“We used Fairtrade Fortnight, World Water Day, National Bee Day, National Ocean Day and Earth Day to help teach them about issues that impact on us all.

“We took part in the Walk to School Challenge in October and our children have developed conscientious attitudes in improving the world we live in and our local area.

“They are passionate in their suggestions and enthusiastically get involved in all the eco projects.

“Our recent photo competition ‘love where you live’ captured the natural beauty of the local area and allowed children to notice the wildlife around them.

“We are proud of our Green Flag status and will continue to think of ways to make a positive impact on our world.”