Chilton Primary School in Ramsgate Secures Bronze Honour at Wilder Kent Awards
Protecting wildlife and safeguarding nature have become integral components of the educational experience at Chilton Primary School in Ramsgate. The school's dedicated awareness and action project, led by both children and staff, has been formally recognised with a bronze honour at the recent annual Wilder Kent Awards.
Year-Round Initiatives Drive Recognition
The award, administered by the Kent Wildlife Trust, acknowledges the numerous initiatives that run throughout the year. Key efforts include establishing 'No Mow' zones around the school premises, where grass is intentionally left to grow to foster wildlife activities. This approach not only supports local ecosystems but also ensures that learning extends beyond the classroom, taking place outdoors as well as indoors.
Additional projects have involved creating minibeast homes and installing bird boxes across the school's site. The school also maintains a dedicated space where children can actively engage in growing their own food, promoting hands-on environmental stewardship.
Engaging in Broader Environmental Projects
Chilton Primary has participated in significant external projects such as the RSPB Big Schools Birdwatch, which encourages birdwatching and conservation awareness. The school promotes energy efficiency by urging children and staff to turn off electrical equipment when not in use. Furthermore, educational visits to local beaches and nature reserves, along with involvement in community litter picks, have been pivotal in reinforcing environmental values.
Community and Leadership Perspectives
Deputy Head of School Hannah Cheshire expressed pride in the students' commitment, stating, "Our children have a true passion for wildlife and in particular our local environment. Working towards the Wilder Kent award has further focused their efforts and activities, and recognition by the Trust and its excellent work is a great achievement."
Tom White from Kent Wildlife Trust highlighted the broader impact, noting, "Every year we are blown away by the entries we receive. To be given an insight into so many fantastic projects taking place all over the county is a real privilege. These projects are creating habitats for wildlife, restoring natural spaces, and working to tackle the climate and biodiversity crisis we all face."
About the Wilder Kent Awards
The Wilder Kent Awards are designed to recognise and reward the efforts of schools and community groups across Kent. By taking positive actions to restore nature, these initiatives contribute to creating a more climate-resilient county, providing habitats for wildlife, and benefiting local communities while addressing global environmental threats.
This achievement underscores Chilton Primary's commitment to integrating environmental education into its curriculum, fostering a generation of eco-conscious learners in Ramsgate.
