A SCHOOL has been given a top award for its commitment to improving the natural environment.

St Thomas CE Primary School is the first school in Pendle to be presented with a Green Tree School Gold Award.

The Woodland Trust award was given to the Barrowford school for its efforts in improving the natural environment.

The Wheatley Lane Road school is one of 101 out of a possible 3,000 across Lancashire and Yorkshire to achieve the coveted Gold Award.

Amanda McQuillan, who leads the school’s eco club, said: “As a school we are committed to striving to improve our natural habitat, as well as educating our pupils about the impact our life choices can have on the environment.

“They have learnt so much from being involved in this awards process and are thrilled to have received this fantastic award.”

Mel Frances, woodland learning officer for the Trust, said: “The children had to complete a variety of challenges and activities linked to learning about and caring for trees and nature.

“They achieved this with an enormous amount of enthusiasm and interest.

“The future of our planet depends on trees and the children are the next generation who will be responsible for protecting them, so it is hugely important.

“It has made them really think about life cycles and the animals and birds that need trees for their survival.”

Schools are encouraged to plant trees and visit their local woods.

They then gain points for completing activities and progress through bronze, silver and gold levels.

To gain points schools can recycle old Christmas cards, inkjet cartridges or mobile phones, help reduce CO2 emissions by taking part in school travel plans to encourage walking, cycling and bus travel and apply for free trees to be sent and planted.

Kids are also encouraged to take pictures and share their stories of their woodland adventures.

All schools in the country are eligible to participate in the Green Tree Schools Award Scheme and many areas are covered by the Woodland Learning Officers which have been funded by the People’s Postcode Lottery. Visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/get-involved/schools/green-tree-school-award/