FOUR years of hard work from pupils and staff has led to Linwood School becoming the first in Bournemouth to be awarded the prestigious Eco-School’s Green Flag Award.

The award symbolises excellence in the field of environmental activity and has been presented for the school’s commitment to investigating green issues.

Linwood has created a sensory garden and an allotment suitable for wheelchair access and students have enjoyed growing plants for food and enjoying the scent and colour of their produce.

“I am incredibly proud of all the young people who have played a part in gaining this award” said science teacher Graham Martin.

“Their hard work and interest in their environment has been an inspiration.

“It has given the pupils ownership of what is happening and a chance to see a range of projects through various stages from planning to completion.”

Young people provided the workforce for a raised bed allotment then concentrated on recycling, upcycling and ways to save on energy consumption.

They also made an igloo-shaped living classroom from willow branches.

“To be the first school in Bournemouth to achieve this award is a real achievement,” added Mr Martin.

Eco-Schools is an international award programme which guides schools on a sustainable journey.

“Our mission is to help make every school sustainable and to bring about behaviour change in young people and those connected to them so that good habits learned in schools are followed through into homes and communities,” said a spokesman.