From fresh veggie gardens to community clean-up initiatives, KZN schools have showed up in all kinds of wonderful ways for the Earth thanks to their sustainable efforts. Now, the Sustainable Schools National Awards is commending them for their hard work, and we can all take a little inspiration from what these schools have been up to:
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa (20 February 2025) — Schools across KwaZulu-Natal are in the spotlight thanks to super sustainable efforts undertaken in 2024! 27 KZN Schools participated in Nature Connect’s Sustainable Schools Programme, implemented in partnership with One Planet SA to great effect, with several earning respective accolades as well as prizes.
Not-for-profit, Public Benefits Organisation Nature Connect is all about inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards! With over two decades of providing eco-education and outdoor experiences to thousands of children, their mission is as much about fostering a love for the environment today as it is about encouraging a protective ethos for the environment of tomorrow. One Planet SA assists Nature Connect to implement the project in KZN.
The Sustainable Schools Programme
As such, the Sustainable Schools Programme is an innovative way to nurture environmentally literate and proactive young citizens. The programme works by encouraging schools to develop a school Environmental Management Plan and setting up sustainability goals tailored to their unique contexts.
Schools then earn ‘Sustainability Stars’ by demonstrating leadership across seven key areas, including:
- Curriculum integration
- Resource Management
- Community Involvement
- Implementing and sharing sustainability initiatives
One hundred thirty-six schools registered for the 2024 programme, and now the Sustainable Schools National Awards are recognising those who shot the lights out with their efforts.
At the regional awards, KZN schools got to bask in the most rewarding kind of glory.
A Round of Applause for KZN Schools!
Programme Manager Jocelyn Anderson, praised the schools for their commitment:
“The KZN Regional Rewards Ceremony was a celebration of the passion and dedication of schools and teachers who are making a real impact in their communities. It has been inspiring to see learners taking the lead – restoring biodiversity, saving water, and tackling waste – while turning sustainability into something meaningful and fun. The energy and commitment of the teachers is truly encouraging. Seeing their dedication firsthand gives me so much confidence that together, we are nurturing a generation of eco-conscious citizens and shaping a greener, more sustainable future for all. We look forward to continuing this journey in Limpopo and beyond.”
Most Sustainable School in KZN: Danville Park Girls’ High School for exceptional leadership in multiple sustainability focus areas.
Community Engagement Award: KwaNgubeni Primary School for ongoing commitment to impactful community initiatives. This included a clean-up kit organised by the Captain Fanplastic team.
Environmental Education Champion: Alice Surmon from Amanzimtoti Primary School for her dedication to fostering environmental literacy.
Other schools recognised in KZN for tackling environmental challenges included:
Biodiversity Conservation: Bambanani Primary School for expanding their indigenous garden, planting 30 new species to enhance local biodiversity!
Health & Well-being: Danville Park Girls’ High School established a medicinal garden and vegetable tunnel, promoting food security and wellness education.
Energy & Climate Action: Shea O’Connor Combined School installed solar panels and hosted climate awareness campaigns.
Marine Conservation: Amanzimtoti Primary School collaborated with local organisations on beach clean-ups and marine education.
Water Conservation: Thembelihle Primary School introduced water-saving initiatives, including Tippy Taps and ‘Cistern Savers’ in toilets.
Community Responsibility: Manor Gardens Primary School supported their local community through food donations and outreach programmes.
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