Winning Schools In IKEA-Let’s Go Zero Competition Excel In Upcycling, Repairing, Outdoor And Eco-learning

Four winning schools across the UK including two from the north of England have been announced as winners in the IKEA-Let's Go Zero sustainable schools’ competition.

The competition – a partnership of IKEA and the national zero carbon campaign for schools, Let’s Go Zero - was a chance for schools to win one of three sustainability product packages: a uniform swap shop, a sustainability hub, or outdoor seating and furniture. Schools sent in videos showcasing the fantastic sustainability work their students are already doing, and, with over 70 entries, the judges had a hard time choosing only four winners.

As well as showing off their sustainability efforts, the winning schools showcased how they would use their new IKEA products, from an outdoor, nature-inspired classroom in Harrogate to a uniform swap shop in Gateshead that will double as a hub for education on the circular economy.

Supporting the Let’s Go Zero’s campaign to make all 32,000 UK schools zero carbon by 2030, the competition gives schools £1,500 of IKEA products and the opportunity for schools to build relationships with their local IKEA stores.

Alex Green, Head of Let’s Go Zero said:
“With 42% of all UK households being home to school aged children, the classroom is a natural place to inspire change across communities for the next generation.

“It’s great to see such brilliant examples of schools working on zero carbon solutions – improving their schools’ facilities at the same time as reducing energy, waste and becoming more sustainable. These schools show clearly that they can inspire children to protect the environment, create beautiful learning spaces and provide students with vital new skills all at once.”

Greg Lucas, Sustainability Manager, IKEA UK said:
“The IKEA vision is to create a better everyday life for people. Climate change threatens this, for citizens today and for generations to come. Becoming climate positive by 2030 means reducing more greenhouse gas emissions than the full IKEA value chain emits, while growing the IKEA business in line with the 1.5 degree target.”


Winners:

Coppice Valley Primary School, Harrogate - The ‘go outside’ classroom

Students at Coppice Valley Primary School love outdoor learning and being out in nature. Their school grounds play a big part in students’ mental health and well-being – giving students space to connect with nature and reflect. Their new outdoor seating means they can open their grounds up to the wider community and other local schools without green space. Though a small school, they have big plans, including holding on-site residentials and family workshops.


Gateshead College, Newcastle - The upcycling and repairing hub
Staff and students see their new swap shop becoming a hub for education on the circular economy, and the benefits of repairing and reusing items. As well as offering second hand clothing to a huge number of students across their four campuses, the swap shop will be a place to learn practical repair and upcycling skills, empowering students and the community to live sustainably. The swap shop will also help to alleviate financial stresses and help community members through the cost-of-living crisis.

Although the IKEA competition is over, schools can take part in Let’s Go Zero’s Climate Action Countdown from 7 June to 5 July to celebrate climate action and win weekly eco prizes for their school.

There is a pick-and-mix calendar of exciting activities from a raft of different climate charities. Schools, eco-clubs, home schoolers, students and teaching staff at all levels are invited to take part.

To find out more go to Climate Action Countdown click here