Niagara Park and Chertsey Public School have been named Environmental Schools of the Year in Central Coast Council’s 2018 Schools Environment Program.

The win is a double celebration for Chertsey Public School, with the school winning the same Small School of the Year award last year.

Niagara Park Public School was named the winning Large School of the Year.

Three other schools also received awards at this week’s awards ceremony:

• Innovation: Holgate Public School
• Most Improved: Mannering Park Public School
• Best Performance: Point Clare Public School.

Mayor Jane Smith said the initiative runs parallel with school environmental educational programs.

“Council’s School Environment Program aims at building an understanding, appreciation and concern for our natural environment,” Mayor Smith said.

“The program is designed to integrate with the programs offered by local schools and the Department of Education.

“It’s imperative that we impart this knowledge in our schools so students are aware of their environment, the impact it has on their lives and how to look after it.

“Their involvement means they are learning how to recycle better, consume less, be water wise, reduce waste and energy, and enjoy nature.

“Most of all they learn that small changes can make a big difference and that they have the ability to protect the environment.”

Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said this year’s theme ‘Let’s get Drastic with Plastic’ supports other ‘Green’ initiatives by Council to protect the environment from litter and plastic pollution.

“With major supermarkets banning single-use plastic bags, and our recent call for local fruit and vegetable businesses to accept our reusable produce net bags, this initiative complements programs already in place to ensure we protect and care for our natural areas,” Ms Vaughan said.

“‘Let’s get Drastic with Plastic’ focuses on plastics that are not typically re-useable and are not easily recyclable or are used once then disposed of such as straws, water bottles and food packages like chips packets, balloons, cling-wrap and plastic bags.

“I hope that many schools continue with their efforts and pass on their knowledge to their family and friends. Congratulations to all the schools who have participated for making a positive impact on our environment.”

Council would like to acknowledge its partnerships with Rumbalara Environmental Education Centre and the Forest of Tranquility for this year’s Schools Environmental Program.