Schools across Central Bedfordshire are being recognised for their commitment to sustainability, with 37 settings achieving Eco-Schools Green Flag accreditation during the 2025/26 academic year.
This is an increase of 8 schools from last year. The percentage of schools receiving a merit or distinction, due to the high quality of their work, has also increased significantly.
The internationally recognised award celebrates pupil-led environmental action and the collective efforts of young people and educators to make schools more biodiverse and environmentally responsible.
The Eco-Schools programme, delivered in England by Keep Britain Tidy, is a global initiative operating in more than 100 countries and engaging over one million young people nationally each year.
Our Sustainability Team supported schools throughout the year, providing in-person eco-forums for teachers, hands-on outreach sessions to launch topics for student eco councils, one-to-one advice for sustainability leads, a monthly eco-newsletter and access to Green Boxes to help schools deliver impactful projects.
This year has also seen the launch of the successful Sustainable Student Program that teaches students from years 10, 11 and 12 skills for the environment and sustainability sector by bringing in expertise from across the sector. Activities delivered by the schools have been varied, ranging from reducing plastic waste, cutting carbon and energy use, improving school grounds and promoting sustainable travel. The impact of Central Bedfordshire schools’ collective action include:
- 28,300 kWh of electricity saved this year
- 4,500 kg of waste diverted from landfill
- 1,400 redistributed uniform items
Councillor Tracey Wye, our Executive Member for Climate Change and Resilience, said:
Seeing so many of our schools achieve Eco-Schools Green Flag status is truly inspiring. These awards recognise not just environmental action, but the passion, creativity and leadership shown by young people across Central Bedfordshire. From Tiny Forests and eco-gardens to reducing plastic and cutting carbon, these projects show that our next generation is already leading the way on climate action. I’m incredibly proud of every pupil, teacher and school community involved, and grateful to our Sustainability Team and sponsors for helping to make this success possible.
This year’s sponsor, Bedford Education Partnership (BEP), said:
BEP was pleased to support Central Bedfordshire Council's sustainability initiatives through its ESG programme. We recognise the important role that schools play in promoting environmental awareness and developing sustainable behaviours amongst young people. By contributing to the Eco-Schools and Carbon Literacy programmes, we hope to support schools in achieving their sustainability goals while helping to create a positive and lasting environmental legacy for future generations.
Get involved: ready for the new term
Schools across Central Bedfordshire are encouraged to sign up for Eco-Schools programme this year to access new resources, eco-activities, and opportunities to further their sustainability journeys. Registration is free.
Find out how to get involved and receive a Sustainability School Guide.