An Alton school has received a prestigious award for its first class attitude to the environment.

Eggar’s School has been awarded the prestigious Eco-Schools’ Green Flag with Merit for its “exceptional work in promoting sustainability” and “raising environmental awareness”.

The accolade is something of a vindication for new headteacher Sarah Holman as the “Eggar’s Green agenda” was one of her first-year priorities.

Solar panels have been installed while staff and students have been encouraged to raise awareness and lead on eco-initiatives in the school and wider Alton and Holybourne community.

The seven-step framework to gain the accolade included the creation of a student-led Eco Committee which took responsibility for spearheading the school’s environmental initiatives.

The group, aided with support from Matthew Hardman, Head of Lower School, developed a year-long plan of action after conducting a thorough review of their school environmental and curriculum.

The action plan focused of biodiversity, litter and school grounds with activities including tree planting, litter pickling, cycling initiatives and greater collaboration with the Action Climate Alton Network (ACAN).

The activities intended to increasing environmental awareness, bolster the school’s sustainability, and make meaningful contributions to global conservation efforts.

Mr Hardman said: “I am so proud of all of the effort and dedication shown by our students in promoting and increasing awareness of climate change and putting this into action with all the things they have done this year.”

Parents have also lauded the school scheme and the impact the eco-committee has had on students and their attitude.