Western Cape, 14 March 2025 – The final leg of the 2024 Sustainable Schools Rewards Ceremony took place at Workshop 17 at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, marking the culmination of a national roadshow that has celebrated the extraordinary efforts of schools across South Africa in promoting Environmental Education and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). Organised by Nature Connect, the evening event was a time for networking, reflection, and celebration, honouring the regional winners and recognising the national winner of the prestigious “Most Sustainable School” award. 

Celebrating National Achievements 

The 2024 roadshow, which began in KwaZulu-Natal and journeyed through Gauteng and Limpopo, has now come to a close with a grand celebration in the Western Cape. Over the year, 138 schools participated in the Sustainable Schools Programme, with more than 226 projects being implemented and maintained across South Africa. These projects spanned a wide range of focus areas, including water conservation, waste management, biodiversity promotion, and energy-saving initiatives. The programme’s impact has been far-reaching, empowering schools to embed sustainability within their curricula and extend it into their communities. 

The programme’s success is reflected in the 63 schools awarded 1 – 3 Sustainability Stars for their exceptional sustainability efforts, with 13 schools earning 0-star recognition for their participation. Additionally, 22 schools have successfully adopted School Environmental Policies, ensuring that sustainability remains a central part of their school’s operations. These milestones underscore the growing influence of the Sustainable Schools Programme and its ability to drive meaningful, long-term change. 

The Western Cape ceremony was a fitting conclusion to a year of national achievement, where over R40,000 in prizes and resources were awarded to schools for their dedication to environmental stewardship. 

Most Sustainable School (Western Cape and National Winner): Pinelands High School 

Pinelands High School stood out for its exceptional commitment to environmental education and sustainable practices, earning both the Western Cape and National “Most Sustainable School” titles. Recognised for its holistic approach to sustainability, the school’s on-going waste management, biodiversity enhancement strategies and staff development activities in ESD earned it the top honours, along with trophies and over R9,000 in prize money to further enhance its sustainability initiatives. Pinelands High’s journey to success has been over five years in the making, and its dedication is now a model for schools across the nation, showcasing how commitment, determination, and collaboration can create lasting environmental change. 

Award Winners Recognised for Excellence in Other Areas of Sustainability 

The ceremony also honoured schools for their outstanding contributions to specific areas of sustainability. The following awards in the Western Cape were presented: 

• Biodiversity Network 1st Place: Battswood Primary School  Recognised for its innovative veld garden and community outreach initiatives that foster local environmental education. 
• Health & Well-Being 1st Place: St Mary’s RC Primary School  For its impactful health education programmes and wellness initiatives that promote overall well-being within the school and local community. 
• Energy & Climate Action 1st Place: John Graham Primary School  Awarded for integrating practical sustainability lessons, including water conservation efforts and energy-saving measures, into school activities. 
• Water & Sanitation 1st Place: St James RC Primary School  Celebrated for its innovative water-saving initiatives, including cistern water displacement and promoting water conservation awareness. 
• Production, Consumption & Waste 1st Place: Pinelands High School  For its comprehensive waste management strategies, including successful recycling campaigns and sustainable classroom practices. 
• Community & Social Responsibility 1st Place: St Mary’s RC Primary School  Recognised for its extensive community outreach, including charity drives and partnerships with local shelters. 

In addition to the category awards, special prizes were awarded for innovation and commitment, including the Rising Star Award to Willows Primary School and the Green Fingers Award to Parkwood Primary School, recognising their outstanding contributions to sustainability. 

The winning schools represent just a fraction of the 138 schools involved in the programme, all implementing activities from tree planting and installing rainwater tanks to hosting community clean-up events. These initiatives reflect the broader environmental goals of the programme. Together, they are nurturing a generation of environmentally literate citizens who actively contribute to the health and well-being of our planet. 

The Growing Network of Teachers and Learners Impacted 

Beyond the learners and schools, the Sustainable Schools Programme has had a significant impact on teachers across South Africa. In 2024, 192 teachers were directly involved, with an additional 4,560 teachers indirectly impacted through the sharing of resources and lessons. This wide-reaching engagement underscores the programme’s role in embedding sustainability into the very fabric of South African education, ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to pass on these valuable lessons to their learners. 

A National Network of Eco-Leaders 

Since its launch in 2021, the Sustainable Schools Programme has grown into a powerful, nationwide movement, empowering schools to lead the way in environmental education and sustainability. With over 138 schools engaged in 2024, the programme has created a robust community of eco-conscious educators and learners working together to create positive, lasting change. As Nature Connect looks ahead to 2025, it will continue to expand its reach, inviting more schools and partners to join this growing network of environmental leaders. 

Looking Ahead 

Nature Connect Programme Manager, Jocelyn Anderson, expressed her gratitude to all schools, partners, and supporters who have contributed to the programme’s success: “We are proud to see how the Sustainable Schools Programme has evolved into a powerful platform for fostering environmental leadership. We look forward to continuing this journey in 2025 and beyond, building on the momentum of this year’s achievements.” 

Acknowledgements

Nature Connect thanks its key partners, including Lapalala Wilderness School , One Planet SA, Allan & Gill Gray Philanthropies, Mapula Trust, and Leisure Charitable Trust, for their invaluable support in making the 2024 rewards ceremonies a success. We would also like to extend our gratitude to the Western Cape Education Department , represented by Suanne Rampou, for attending and supporting the final leg of the ceremony, underscoring the importance of environmental education in the region. The programme’s expansion and impact are only possible due to the dedication and collaboration of schools, educators, and sustainability-focused organisations across South Africa. 

For more information about the Sustainable Schools Programme and how to get involved in 2025, visit www.sustainableschools.natureconnect.earth or follow us on Social Media – Facebook and Instagram.