CHILDREN from Rydon Primary School in Kingsteignton are celebrating after being named winners of the District Young Environmentalists Competition for Devon and Cornwall.

As part of the competition, the pupils delivered a presentation showcasing the wide range of environmental initiatives taking place at the school. They explained how the school is working to reduce its environmental impact, promote sustainability and encourage everyone to play their part in protecting the planet.

Judges were impressed with their enthusiasm, knowledge and passion impressed the judges, as they highlighted the positive difference they are making within the school community.

Following this success, the school has now been entered into the National Young Environmentalists Competition, where it will represent the region.

Earlier this year the school achieved a 47per cent improvement in its recycling and waste-reduction efforts following a second whole-school waste audit by Devon’s Resource Futures.

The completer audit found annual general waste had fallen from 6.76 tonnes to 3.5 tonnes, while the school’s recycling rate increased from 25 per cent to 62 per cent.

Danny Brown, Headteacher, said: ‘We are incredibly proud of our pupils and the passion they have shown for protecting our environment.

‘Winning the District Young Environmentalists Competition is a fantastic achievement and a real reflection of the knowledge and commitment they have developed through our whole-school approach to sustainability.

‘Seeing the children confidently share what we are doing at Rydon and inspire others to make a difference is hugely rewarding.’

Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said: ‘This is a wonderful achievement for the pupils at Rydon Primary and a testament to the importance of giving children the opportunity to take ownership of issues that matter to them.

‘Their success, alongside the school’s impressive progress in reducing waste and increasing recycling, shows the impact that collective action can have.’