STOW Primary School picked up a Learning Community Award at the annual Learning for Sustainability Awards which recognise the amazing achievements of Scotland’s people, schools and communities that have demonstrated passion and commitment to building a socially-just, sustainable and equitable world.

Also recognised was Principal Teacher Debbie Matthewson who collected a Learning for Sustainability Leadership Award for being an ‘exceptional leader who inspires staff, pupils and the community.’

Learning for sustainability (LfS) is an approach to life and learning which enables learners, educators, schools and their wider communities to build a socially-just, sustainable and equitable society.

The school was recently named Schools Champion at this year’s Surfers Against Sewage Plastic Free Awards and were also crowned Scottish Champions for the third year in a row in the Better Energy School Awards for Excellence in Environmental Education.

Debbie told the Border Telegraph: “I’m very happy and honoured to be recognised on such a platform. It’s been a three-year journey for the school, and we are now riding on the crest of a wave.

“It’s about empowering pupils, parents and staff and we have projects that include a pre-loved clothes rail to recycle clothes, a book swap, a community recycling centre where people can recycle things such as toothpaste tubes, crisp packets, pens and sweet wrappers.

“We also have a community food growing project and the aim is for people to be able to come and pick what they need from the garden and we store litter pick-up equipment on behalf of Green Stow.

“Currently the pupils are working on a 'Sack the Sachet' project and are sending letters to companies who use plastic sachets to encourage them to stop or find alternatives. We want to help people think about making sustainable choices.”

Congratulating the participants and winners, HMI Chief Inspector and Chief Executive of Education Scotland Gayle Gorman said: ‘It is right to celebrate the hard work and success taking place in Scottish education. The Learning for Sustainability Awards have given us an opportunity to celebrate the amazing determination and effort that takes place throughout the year, but especially in this past year.

Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, Shirley-Anne Somerville added: “Children and young people in Scotland are driving forward the cause for climate action and it is vital we listen to their views and harness their passion as part of COP26 and its legacy.

“Congratulations to all this year’s winners for their hard work.”