Schools from across the Western Cape were honoured for their outstanding contributions to environmental education and sustainability at the Sustainable Schools Rewards programme. This significant event marked the climax of Nature Connect’s national rewards roadshow that has been acknowledging schools’ exemplary efforts in fostering sustainable practices.
The ceremony brought together a vibrant community of educators, partners, and students, all united in their commitment to making a positive impact on the environment. With earlier regional ceremonies held in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal, this gathering served to highlight the achievements across the Western Cape while unveiling the national award winners.
Sustainability Action
Schools in the Western Cape have shown remarkable engagement in the 2025 Sustainable Schools Programme, with numerous projects focusing on biodiversity, water stewardship, health and well-being, energy conservation, waste reduction, and community upliftment. Guided by a hands-on, story-based professional learning experience, teachers utilised BirdLife South Africa’s book, Run Until You Can Fly, during the ceremony. This innovative approach aimed to connect environmental concepts to real-world applications within the classroom, employing local wetlands and catchment systems as focal points for learning.
Sustainability Leadership
A plethora of schools were honoured across various focus areas, underlining the breadth and impact of sustainability initiatives taking root in the region. Award winners included:
- Biodiversity Network: Pinelands High School
- Health & Well-being: Parkwood Primary School
- Energy & Climate Action: Silvermine Academy
- Marine & Coast: St James RC Primary School
- Water & Sanitation: Sweet Valley Primary School
- Production, Consumption & Waste: St Mary’s RC Primary School
- Community & Social Responsibility: St Mary’s RC Primary School
These institutions exemplified exceptional commitment to cross-cutting sustainability initiatives, showcasing a holistic approach to environmental stewardship.
Recognition also went to schools demonstrating notable progress in various learning contexts. Bel Porto School was awarded Best Progress for a New School, while Harmony Primary School was recognised as the Most Improved School. Moreover, John Graham Primary School earned the Outstanding Eco Club accolade for its impactful learner-led initiatives.
Most Sustainable School
St Mary’s RC Primary School stood out as the Most Sustainable School in the Western Cape, honoured for its long-standing commitment to sustainability and the programme. This low-fee-paying institution showcased exemplary progress, bolstered by strategic partnerships that have enhanced its environmental initiatives significantly.
National Winner
As the roadshow culminated, Monala Primary School was declared the Most Sustainable School in South Africa. This rural, no-fee-paying school made significant strides towards sustainability thanks to dedicated teacher leadership and strong community involvement, demonstrating that impactful change is achievable even in under-resourced settings.
Growing Engagement
Jocelyn Anderson, the Programme Manager for Nature Connect’s Sustainable Schools Programme, expressed enthusiasm about the trends observed: “As we reach the final leg of the national roadshow, what stands out most is the steady growth in both participation and depth of engagement from schools across the programme.” Anderson noted the increasing confidence among educators and the expanding commitment to embedding sustainability in everyday teaching.
With continued participation anticipated, schools eager to enhance their sustainability journey are invited to register for the Sustainable Schools Programme via the Sustainable Schools Online Hub (beta.sustainableschools.natureconnect.earth).
Weekend Argus Reporter
iol.co.za