PRIMARY school children across Dorset are learning about saving energy and being green with the help of their counterparts in France.

The county council is one of three in the UK to join forces with two French local authorities as part of a £1.6 million EU funded project to help children learn that small changes can make a big difference.

“We all have our part to play when it comes to protecting the environment, but it’s so important that children learn about this now so they can continue to make a difference throughout their lvies and teach future generations how to be eco-friendly” said cabinet member for the environment Robert Gould.

One of the schools taking part is Bovington First School where head teacher Juliet Muir said: “I am so impressed by what the children have achieved.

“I thought that we may save some energy but I had no idea it would be so successful. The children have even taught the adults to be more careful with energy.”

And Colehill First head Andrew Turrall added: “A dedicated team of eco-rangers has been established in school, comprising pupils and staff, and this team has been involved in re-use and recycling, energy conservation and waste reduction projects.”

Anyone who wants to learn more about the project or get advice on how to reduce school energy usage should go to seacs.info or call schools energy officer Stacie Forrester on 01305 225230.