Blackawton School Celebrates Earth Day with Inspiring Whole-School Environmental Projects 

Blackawton Primary School marked Earth Day this term with a series of creative and hands-on activities designed to help pupils reflect on how they can care for the planet and make a positive environmental impact.

The very first Earth Day was held in 1970. Since then, the Earth Day Network has been mobilising over 1 billion people annually to help protect the planet.

Children from every class took part in practical learning experiences focused on sustainability, conservation and environmental awareness. The activities encouraged pupils to think about how small everyday actions can contribute to a healthier planet.

A standout contribution came from Class 1, who made a commitment to reduce waste by recycling fruit scraps through a classroom wormery. This initiative will help reduce landfill waste while producing nutrient-rich compost to support plant growth. The class also created a crafted model of the Earth as part of their learning.

Class 2 pupils embraced the theme of growing and sustainability by planting peas in the school garden. They are now looking forward to observing the plants grow and learning more about how to care for them over time.

Class 3 had a busy week, planting a range of vegetables with the aim of using their harvest later in the term. The class also welcomed a visit from a solar engineer, who introduced pupils to the principles of sustainable energy. Inspired by the session, children designed their own imaginative solar-powered toys.

In addition, Class 5 created a wildflower patch on the school field and planted their first seeds, supporting biodiversity and encouraging pollinators within the school grounds.

Music also played a role in the celebrations, with pupils rehearsing the school song “I am the Earth” in preparation for the upcoming Dart Music Festival.

The school’s Earth Day celebrations highlight its ongoing commitment to environmental education and inspiring pupils to become responsible global citizens.

Liam Fielding, Headteacher at Blackawton Primary School, said:

“Earth Day has been a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to learn about sustainability in a meaningful and practical way. We are incredibly proud of their enthusiasm, creativity and commitment to protecting the environment. These activities show that even small actions can make a real difference.”

Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:

“It is fantastic to see Earth Day brought to life in such a meaningful and practical way at Blackawton School. These experiences help pupils understand that sustainability is not just a topic to learn about, but something they can actively take part in. We are incredibly proud of their enthusiasm and the way they are embracing their role as future custodians of the planet.”

 

Blackawton Primary’s Youngest Pupils Raise Over £200 for Devon Air Ambulance

 

Children in Class 1 and  the nursery at Blackawton Primary School have been spreading festive cheer while raising vital funds for Devon Air Ambulance this Christmas.

The Early Years pupils took part in a fun filled sponsored run around the school track, wearing Santa hats and completing a series of Christmas themed challenges along the way. Activities included running through magical bubbles, posting parcels down a chimney, feeding a reindeer with oats and rolling snowballs, creating an exciting and memorable experience for everyone involved.

Year 5 pupils played an important role in the event by supporting the younger children, running activity stations and cheering them on throughout the course. So far, the fundraising effort has raised an impressive £223 for Devon Air Ambulance, the charity responsible for keeping two emergency air ambulances and four critical care cars operating across Devon all year round. The service is independent of government funding and relies entirely on the generosity of local communities and supporters.

The school would like to thank everyone who has donated so far and continues to support the cause. Donations can still be made via the school’s JustGiving page, with every contribution helping Devon Air Ambulance continue its life-saving work across the county.

Liam Fielding, Headteacher at Blackawton Primary School, said:

“This event was a wonderful way for our youngest children to learn that even small actions can make a big difference. They had enormous fun while also supporting a charity that truly saves lives.”

Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:

“I am incredibly proud of our young pupils at Blackawton Primary for showing such generosity and enthusiasm. Their efforts not only raise vital funds for a life-saving service but also teach important lessons about community spirit, kindness, and the impact each of us can make.”

 

Weekly News - 5th December 2025

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Devon Resource Futures Celebrates Young Environmental Leaders at Blackawton Primary School

 

Blackawton Primary School has been recognised for its outstanding commitment to recycling and sustainability. 

Devon Resource Futures have highlighted the school’s innovative environmental initiatives during a special photoshoot, showcasing the efforts of pupils and staff who are leading the way in creating a greener future.

Over the past year, Blackawton Primary has transformed its approach to waste management. Lunchtime food scraps, once destined for landfill, are now composted to create nutrient-rich soil for the school gardens, giving pupils hands-on experience of the full food-to-soil cycle.

The school has also implemented extensive dry recycling practices. Pupils have become adept at sorting paper, cardboard, and plastic into clearly labelled stations, ensuring maximum reuse of materials. These initiatives have significantly reduced the school’s reliance on Energy-from-Waste plants, cutting carbon emissions and fostering environmental responsibility among students.

The recent photoshoot generated excitement among the children, who felt celebrated for their efforts. Children at Blackawton Primary are gaining not only practical environmental skills but also a sense of pride in contributing to a cleaner, greener planet.

Liam Fielding, Headteacher at Blackawton Primary School, said:

"We are incredibly proud of our pupils and staff. Their enthusiasm and commitment to sustainability show that even small actions can have a big impact. Being recognised across Devon is a wonderful celebration of their hard work."

Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:

"This recognition is about more than recycling, it’s about nurturing the next generation of environmental leaders. We hope Blackawton inspires other schools across Devon to take similar steps towards sustainability."