Crofty Eco Council

At Crofty Education Trust, we believe that every child has the power to make a difference. Through our Trust-wide Eco Council, pupils are given the opportunity to become environmental leaders, working together to create positive change within their schools, communities and the wider world. Bringing together representatives from all 18 schools, the Eco Council empowers children to develop their ideas, influence decision-making and turn their passion for the environment into meaningful action.

At the heart of the Eco Council are the United Nations Sustainability Heroes, a child-friendly framework that transforms global sustainability goals into engaging and achievable actions. These heroes help pupils understand that even small changes can make a significant difference when people work together.

Our Sustainability Heroes are:

  • The Water Wizards – protecting water and reducing waste.
  • The Fashion Fixers – encouraging reuse and reducing unnecessary consumption.
  • The Veggie Vindicators – promoting sustainable and healthy food choices.
  • The Fume Fighters – supporting active and sustainable travel.
  • The Truth Talkers – raising awareness and inspiring others to take action.
  • The Energy Experts – reducing energy consumption and tackling climate change.
  • The Green Guides – encouraging sustainable food production and reducing food waste.
  • The Recycle Rangers – improving recycling and reducing landfill waste.

The heroes provide a common language and shared purpose across all our schools, linking directly to the Trust’s Climate Action Plan and wider sustainability ambitions. Each year, the Eco Council focuses on a particular theme, enabling pupils to deepen their understanding, develop new skills and make a lasting contribution to both their local communities and the environment.

2026/27: The Green Business Challenge

This year, the Eco Council is championing the Sustainability Hero Truth Talker through the Trust-wide Green Business Challenge, delivered in partnership with Cornish Metals.

Thirty-six elected pupil representatives from across our 18 schools are engaging with businesses throughout Cornwall and beyond to explore environmental responsibility, celebrate positive sustainability practices and encourage organisations to make further commitments to protecting the environment. Throughout the year, pupils will collect responses, showcase examples of good practice and evaluate the impact of the project.

The programme also helps pupils understand the connections between Cornwall’s industrial heritage, environmental challenges and sustainable development. Through specialist input, educational visits, conservation projects and community activities, pupils will develop leadership, communication, research and environmental stewardship skills while making a measurable contribution to sustainability across their local communities.

Our Journey So Far

2023: Building the Foundations

The Trust established its first Eco Council, bringing together pupil representatives from across all schools to create a shared vision for sustainability. Through the introduction of the eight Sustainability Heroes, pupils developed practical pledges focused on saving energy, reducing waste, increasing recycling, promoting active travel, supporting sustainable food choices and sharing environmental successes. This first year laid the foundations for a culture of environmental responsibility and pupil leadership across the Trust.

2024: Embedding Sustainable Change

With the Sustainability Heroes firmly established, pupils began working alongside Trust suppliers and partners to drive meaningful environmental improvements. Schools reduced energy consumption, cut the use of single-use products, promoted more sustainable menus and increased participation in walking and cycling initiatives. The year demonstrated how collective action can create measurable impact, with Weeth School receiving the Eco Cup for its outstanding commitment to sustainability and their innovative ‘Wonky Vegetable Ketchup’ which met food standards and was rolled out across thousands of UK schools!

2025: Biodiversity and Natural Habitats

The Eco Council’s focus shifted towards biodiversity and the protection of local habitats. Pupils explored rewilding projects, wildlife conservation and ways to enhance natural environments within their school grounds. Educational visits and collaborative activities helped children develop a deeper understanding of Cornwall’s ecosystems and the importance of protecting them. The year culminated in the Eco Summit at Trannack School, where pupils celebrated their achievements through outdoor learning, foraging experiences and expert-led workshops on wildlife conservation.

2026: Green Careers and Sustainable Futures

The focus for 2025/26 was Green Careers, helping pupils understand how sustainability is shaping future employment opportunities. Council members met professionals from the catering, energy monitoring and waste management sectors, learning about green skills, career pathways and environmental innovation. These experiences provided valuable insight into how businesses are contributing to a more sustainable future. The year concluded with an Eco Summit at Halwin School, where pupils took part in an immersive sustainability challenge exploring food miles and environmental impact. In recognition of its achievements, the Trust Eco Council was also shortlisted for a MAT Excellence Award.