Springfield Community Primary School receives the Silver Green Tree Schools Award from the Woodland Trust

Pupils and staff at a Burnley primary school are celebrating after achieving a top nature award.

Springfield Community Primary School received the Silver Green Tree Schools Award from the Woodland Trust, recognising the school’s commitment to connecting children with nature, caring for the environment and creating opportunities for outdoor learning.

The award marks an important milestone in the school’s journey towards developing environmentally responsible young people and nurturing a positive, supportive school community.

Through activities such as planting trees, litter picking, visiting a wood, dressing a tree, pupils have been encouraged to explore the natural world, understand the importance of protecting the environment and recognise the positive impact that spending time outdoors can have on their mental health and well-being.

Mrs Caroline White, forest school lead, said: “Outdoor learning provides meaningful opportunities for pupils to engage, explore, and take responsibility for the natural environment. Through these experiences, children develop the skills, values, and positive well-being needed to thrive both in school and beyond.”

The school believes that time spent outdoors can provide children with opportunities to feel calmer, be physically active, develop friendships and build confidence. Learning in natural spaces can also encourage curiosity, independence and a sense of belonging, helping pupils develop skills and habits that support their emotional well-being.

Achieving the Silver Green Tree Schools Award is not the end of the journey. The school is committed to building on this success, finding new ways to protect nature, inspire pupils and strengthen the connection between environmental responsibility and a happy, healthy school community.