A first school in Whitley Bay has become the longest-standing holder of the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag Award.
Coquet Park First School received the internationally recognised accreditation once again this week, making it 14 years in a row.
The award was presented during a gathering of pupils, parents, and staff.
They were joined by Councillor Sandra Graham, Cabinet Member for the Climate Emergency, who said: “Achieving this award for 14 years is a remarkable achievement. Coquet Park First School has shown that sustainability isn't just a trend — it's a way of life. The children here are learning lessons that will stay with them long after they leave and will make a huge difference for the future of our community."
The school gave thanks to SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK for helping to secure the accreditation.
Much of the school's green drive is led by the pupils themselves. A team of Green Ambassadors — young environmental leaders elected from across the school — meet regularly to plan campaigns, champion new ideas and keep sustainability at the heart of school life.
Their work over the past year has ranged from litter picks along Briar Dene to whole-school Eco Days, where electricity is switched off entirely and every class takes its learning outdoors. Children have grown pumpkins, potatoes and courgettes in the school allotment, with produce sold to raise funds for World Vision. They have made and sold eco-crafts from recycled materials, marked Earth Day and World Water Day with environmental artwork, and earned recognition as both an Ocean Friendly School and a Fairtrade School.
Headteacher, Colleen Ward, said: "Fourteen years as a Green Flag school is a remarkable milestone — one shaped by the curiosity of our students and the commitment of our staff over time to creating a greener, brighter future. This achievement represents more than an award; it reflects the values we live by and the pride we take in nurturing a school community where sustainability is not just taught but lived every day.”
The Green Flag Award is run by Eco-Schools, the world's largest programme for environmental education, operating in over 70 countries.