Eco-schools response to complaints

See earlier story regarding claims that Eco-schools support the involvement of pupils in activities such as planting Marram grass at Menie,

The Eco- Schools Scotland programme is part of an international award programme to encourage schools to learn more about their environment and must involve pupils, teachers and the local community. There are three stages to the Eco- Schools Award programme, namely Bronze, Silver and ultimately the Green Flag Award itself. The first two stages, namely, Bronze and Silver are done by self assessment and a written submission to the Eco- Schools Scotland team assessors for decision. The Green Flag Award is awarded only after a visit by assessors from the Eco- Schools Scotland team to the relevant school.

Balmedie Primary School has reached the Bronze Award level, having complied with all the relevant Bronze level award criteria.

Future Awards, if applied for, will be awarded after suitable assessments in line with that for all schools in Scotland.

Decisions about the activities of pupils in school are the prerogative of the school and the relevant local authority.

As the school fully meets all the relevant criteria for its present level of award, its Bronze Award status will remain