Westbury schools recognised for commitment to biodiversity

Schools in Westbury have been recognised for their commitment to nature recovery and environmental improvement through the Wiltshire Biodiversity Champions initiative.

Fairfield College, On Track Education and The Eaves Learning Centre were recognised as Wiltshire Biodiversity Champions. Their projects included developing plans focused on improving habitats, increasing native planting, supporting pollinators and creating opportunities for outdoor learning and environmental engagement.

The initiative forms part of Wiltshire Council’s ongoing work to support biodiversity and enhance wildlife habitats across the county. Schools were supported by the council and its street scene contractor, idverde, to assess habitats, plants and wildlife on their sites, identify opportunities for improvement and develop practical plans to create more wildlife-friendly spaces for both nature and learning.

Cllr Martin Smith, Cabinet Member for Highways and Streetscene, said, “The Wiltshire Biodiversity Champions initiative is a fantastic example of how young people can make a real contribution to nature recovery in Wiltshire.

“Pupils have not only learned about local wildlife and habitats but have also taken practical action to improve biodiversity in their school grounds and communities.”

The schools’ assessments were reviewed by award-winning environmental educator Eco Edd, biodiversity manager for idverde Tom Bellamy, and the RSPB at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London.

Edd Moore from Eco Edd said, “I was really impressed by how much everyone has done, especially Eaves where we visited, and On Track. At On Track, they had a blank canvas, so I would be interested to see and hear what they have been up to since we last visited. Fairfield have done great too.”

Tom said, “It has been really inspiring reading the plans for nature submitted by each of the schools. A wide variety of species groups have been considered in their plans, which will help to make their local area more biodiverse. Community initiatives such as this help to deliver nature recovery across Wiltshire.”

The schools have been presented with certificates and biodiversity resources, including wildflower seed mixes, bird boxes, bat boxes, bee boxes, butterfly houses, bug hotels and hedgehog houses, to help continue their biodiversity journeys.

Pictured: Students and staff from the schools with Mayor Carole King, Cllr Gordon King, and representatives from idverde, Eco Edd and Wiltshire Council