Pupils at Llanybydder’s Dyffryn Cledlyn School have won an Eco-Schools Platinum Award, the highest accolade available through the internationally recognised Eco-Schools programme.

The award marks the school's first Platinum Status through the Eco-Schools programme, and reflects years of dedication by pupils and staff to creating a more sustainable school environment.

One of the highlights of the school's environmental journey has been the replacement of its polytunnel, made possible thanks to support from the wider community after the previous structure was destroyed in a storm.

Pupils have transformed the polytunnel into a flourishing growing space, producing an impressive range of fruit and vegetables. The harvest has been used in cooking lessons, helping children develop an understanding of healthy eating and sustainable food production, while surplus produce has also been sold, giving pupils valuable enterprise experience.

Emma Sisto, Education Officer for Ceredigion and Powys, said: "It's fantastic to see schools like Dyffryn Cledlyn putting sustainability at the heart of learning. Projects such as their community-funded polytunnel give pupils the opportunity to develop practical skills, connect with nature and make a positive difference to their local community. Achieving the Eco-Schools Platinum Award is a wonderful recognition of their commitment and everything they have accomplished."

Deputy Headteacher Deiniol Williams said: “We are incredibly proud to have achieved the Eco-Schools Platinum Award, which reflects the dedication and enthusiasm of our pupils, staff, families and wider community. Sustainability is embedded throughout school life at Dyffryn Cledlyn, and every member of our school community plays an active role in caring for and improving our environment.

“The support we received to rebuild our polytunnel is a wonderful example of the strength of our close-knit community and what can be achieved when we work together. Through growing, harvesting and using produce, pupils gain valuable hands-on learning experiences that develop responsibility, resilience and a deeper understanding of the world around them.”