South African schools are shining with sustainable stewardship and giving us all a little hope for the planet’s future in the process. The Most Sustainable School title has been won by Pinelands High School!
Western Cape, South Africa (17 March 2025) — In hopeful news for the eco-future of South Africa and the planet, schools are shining with sustainable stewardship! A recent awards ceremony gave the top sustainable schools their flowers, including the coveted Most Sustainable School title.
At the final leg of the 2024 Sustainable Schools Rewards Ceremony, several schools from all over the Western Cape were celebrated for their extraordinary efforts in promoting Environmental Education and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD).
This marked the end of the 2024 national roadshow that began in KwaZulu-Natal and took celebrations all over the country.
Part of Nature Connect’s Sustainable Schools Programme, more than 226 projects were implemented and maintained across the country, spanning from water conservation efforts to energy-saving initiatives.
The programme’s success is reflected in the 63 schools awarded 1 – 3 Sustainability Stars for their exceptional sustainability efforts, with 13 schools earning 0-star recognition for their participation. Additionally, 22 schools have successfully adopted School Environmental Policies, ensuring that sustainability remains a central part of their school’s operations!
Giving the schools their flowers is an important part of the program. And we’re thrilled to share the Western Cape schools who deserve all the applause—one of which won the National Most Sustainable School title!
Schools Spotlighted for Sustainable Stewardship
Most Sustainable School (Western Cape and National Winner): Pinelands High School stood out for its exceptional commitment to environmental education and sustainable practices, earning both the Western Cape and National Most Sustainable School titles!
Pinelands High was recognised for its holistic approach to sustainability, the school’s ongoing waste management, biodiversity enhancement strategies and staff development activities in ESD.
The school won trophies and over R9,000 in prize money to further enhance its sustainability as well as all the bragging rights. Pinelands High’s road to this exciting triumph has come over five years of dedication and now serves as a stellar example for others to follow.
Biodiversity Network 1st Place: Battswood Primary School was recognised for its innovative veld garden and community outreach initiatives that foster local environmental education.
Health & Well-being 1st Place: St Mary’s RC Primary School earned this title for its impactful health education programmes and wellness initiatives that promote overall well-being within the school and the larger local community.
Energy & Climate Action 1st Place: John Graham Primary School was awarded for integrating practical sustainability lessons, including water conservation efforts and energy-saving measures, into school activities.
Water & Sanitation 1st Place: This win went to St James RC Primary School for its innovative water-saving initiatives that included cistern water displacement and for promoting water conservation awareness like champs.
Production, Consumption & Waste 1st Place: Pinelands High School earned first place for its comprehensive waste management strategies, including successful recycling campaigns and sustainable classroom practices.
Community & Social Responsibility 1st Place: St Mary’s RC Primary School won top honours for its extensive community outreach, including charity drives and partnerships with local shelters.
Of the special prizes, the Rising Star Award went to Willows Primary School, while the Green Fingers Award was claimed by Parkwood Primary School!
The winning schools represent just a snippet of the 138 schools involved in the program that have implemented all kinds of eco-good practices, from tree planting and installing rainwater tanks to hosting community clean-up events.
Don’t Forget the Teachers
Beyond the learners and schools, the Sustainable Schools Programme has had a significant impact on teachers across South Africa. In 2024, 192 teachers were directly involved, with an additional 4,560 teachers indirectly impacted through the sharing of resources and lessons.
Looking Forward to the Future
As Nature Connect Programme Manager Jocelyn Anderson shared:
“We are proud to see how the Sustainable Schools Programme has evolved into a powerful platform for fostering environmental leadership. We look forward to continuing this journey in 2025 and beyond, building on the momentum of this year’s achievements.”
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