AW CONSTRUCTION – GREEN SCHOOL AWARDS 2026
AW Construction – Green School Awards Launch 2026: Supporting the Next Generation of Sustainability Leaders
As proud sponsors and judging panel members of the Green School Awards 2026, AW Construction was honoured to attend the official launch event and visit Herne Junior School, one of the 2025 award winners and Primary Category Trailblazer Schools.
Herne Junior School has established itself as a leading example of how sustainability, environmental responsibility, and curriculum-based learning can be successfully integrated to inspire young people. Our visit provided an invaluable opportunity to witness first-hand the remarkable work being undertaken by both students and staff to champion greener practices.
A Student-Led Commitment to Sustainability
Our experience began with a guided tour of the school, led by Herne Junior School’s dedicated “Eco Champions” – a passionate group of students committed to driving sustainability initiatives throughout their school community.
From classrooms to outdoor learning environments, the Eco Champions confidently showcased a wide range of projects focused on:
- Recycling and waste reduction
- Biodiversity enhancement
- Sustainable gardening
- Upcycling initiatives
- Environmental education
Their depth of knowledge, enthusiasm, and confidence was truly inspiring, demonstrating how deeply sustainability values are embedded within the school’s culture.
Embedding Green Learning into Everyday Education
During our visit, we observed several curriculum-based sustainability activities actively taking place across the school. Students were eager to share their research, projects, and practical learning experiences, giving us insight into how environmental education is seamlessly woven into their daily studies.
One standout activity involved students creatively upcycling old t-shirts into reusable tote bags – a practical lesson that not only encouraged recycling but also promoted sustainable consumer habits from an early age.
In addition, every student undertakes their own personal sustainability journey through dedicated notebooks, where they explore:
- Personal and household carbon footprints
- Sustainable choices at home and school
- Waste management
- Environmental awareness
- Climate responsibility
This hands-on approach equips students with both knowledge and practical skills, empowering them to make informed, environmentally conscious decisions.
Inspiring the Future
Seeing such young students actively embrace and advocate for green initiatives was both encouraging and inspiring. Their passion, combined with the unwavering support of teachers Becky and Sherrie, as well as the wider school staff, highlights the profound impact that education can have in shaping a more sustainable future.
Herne Junior School exemplifies the core values celebrated by the Green School Awards: innovation, leadership, and environmental stewardship.
At AW Construction, our own commitment to sustainability through our long-standing recycling and surplus materials initiative strongly aligns with the mission of the Green School Awards. Attending schools like Herne Junior School reinforces our belief that fostering sustainability at a grassroots level is essential to creating lasting environmental change.
Looking Ahead
The visit was a powerful reminder that the next generation is already making significant strides toward a greener future. We are proud to play a role in recognising and supporting these efforts through our sponsorship of the Green School Awards 2026.
We extend our sincere thanks to Herne Junior School, its Eco Champions, and all staff involved for sharing their inspiring journey with us.
Nominate Your School
Nominations for the Green School Awards 2026 are now open until 31st July 2026.
If your school is making a difference through sustainability, recycling, or environmental education, we encourage you to get involved and showcase your achievements.
Nominations are now open – use this link to take part:
Or follow the story and visit last year’s award via the Social Enterprise Kent website here:
AW Group is a multi-disciplined construction company providing a broad range of support and manpower across building and rail projects.
Our Fields are:
AW Construction – We offer an outstanding UK-wide fit out service, taking care of everything from scheduling rollouts & ordering materials to assistance with design and onsite delivery
AW Rail – We use the very best labour force and a proactive approach to deliver first-class construction and maintenance projects across the rail industry
AW Labour – We provide a high-calibre blue collar and white-collar workforce with a diverse range of skills, to support the construction and rail industries
