Pupils decide to ban glitter from art classes
THE PUPILS of Scoil Ghormáin Naofa in Castletown have decided to add a little less sparkle to their lives as they work towards making their school more sustainable.
This year, pupils have decided to ban glitter from art lessons. Although many children love using glitter, it was discussed at assembly how microplastics such as glitter can have a devastating effect on marine life.
Having hosted a visit from RTÉ’s Éanna ní Lamhna last week, the students are now very mindful of protecting marine biodiversity. The school took an educational field trip to Clone beach where they investigated the ecosystems there. They also learned how to detect phosphates in the streamlet running into the sea.
Last year, through their Junior Entrepreneur project, a water bottle made from recycled materials was introduced as part of the school uniform. The idea behind this was that it eliminates single use plastic bottles. Children are encouraged to refill their bottles from one of the fountains on the school yard so it also compliments the school’s healthy lunch policy.
Other initiatives include reducing litter in classrooms and the creation of junk art. The school has a beautiful green field for play on dry days and looks after its wooded area.
To date, Scoil Ghormáin Naofa has raised five green flags and has an active green school committee.
Greta Thunberg is a real inspiration to the students who downed tools during assembly time on Friday, September 20 in support of the Global Strike for Climate Change. This inspirational young eco warrior inspires the students at Scoil Ghormáin Noafa to see that young people can and must change the world.
For information on Scoil Ghormáin Naofa, vist at www. castletownnationalschool.ie.