Macmillan Academy has been registered as an eco- school for almost ten years. This means that we are committed to sustainability and can demonstrate reductions in carbon, waste and water.

Did you know that Macmillan Academy has been registered as an eco- school for almost ten years? This means that we are committed to sustainability and can demonstrate reductions in carbon, waste and water. We also promote healthier living and encourage community cohesion. In 2010 we were successful in achieving the Green Flag Award.

Here at the academy we try to save energy by switching off lights and computers and we have installed low energy bulbs. Where possible we buy local products to save our carbon footprint and we have a wind turbine on site to promote renewable energy. All classes recycle paper and we generally use recycled materials where possible.

As part of our focus on healthier living, academy staff recently took part in the 'love to ride' cycle scheme achieving first place in our category. Students have been educated on how to make healthier lunch choices and many students have had the opportunity to take part in growing vegetables on site.

This year we are planning more sustainability projects. There are exciting developments in the eco-garden including the planting of medicinal plants to form an apothecary garden just like in Harry Potter, and we hope to hold a tutor pumpkin competition.

We are looking to extend our recycling facilities to collect batteries and coffee pods. Linking to food technology we are planting a herb garden and plan to install a wormery compost bin for recycling. If we are successful in obtaining a grant we are aspiring to plant a wildflower orchard adjacent to the new astroturf pitch as part of a national pollinating corridor. We want students to think globally but act locally.

The eco-council believes that it is everyone's responsibility to live our daily lives in a sustainable way that respects the environment and conserves valuable resources. We encourage students to take an active role in achieving this. We welcome any enthusiastic students from all year groups to become a member of the Eco-council, to help organise and promote sustainable projects within the academy.

Please speak to Mrs Fawcett (Science) for more details.