CLEAN SWEEP; NURSERY YOUNGSTERS GIVEN AWARD FOR THEIR GREEN WORK.

Byline: By SARA NICHOL

WITH litter picking and homemade recycling machines, these youngsters are setting a green example.

Children and staff at Buffer Bear Nursery in Newcastle's city centre have been awarded an Enviro School certificate.

After an initial talk on how to keep the environment tidy, youngsters helped make Robyn the Robot out of old boxes that they use to help explain what can be made from rubbish.

They have also been busy keeping their nursery grounds rubbish free with litter pickers called graptors and preparing to take part in other fun, environmental activities.

Denise Maddison, nursery manager, said: "Buffer Bear Nursery were interested in implementing recycling activities with the children as we feel it is imperative children learn about the importance of caring for and looking after the world in which we live.

"Through these fun activities we aim for our children to gain an understanding and have a clear message that every one can help look after our community and ultimately save our planet no matter how small our actions are." Enviro Schools is an innovative, inclusive flexible programme supported by the environment and regeneration directorate of Newcastle City Council which aims to raise the level of sustainability within the cities schools.

Ben Grant, Enviro School officer, said: "Buffer Bear have been part of the Enviro School Programme since October 2008.

"They have just achieved the Enviro Schools Litter Award for keeping their Nursery Tidy. They are also about to undertake Paper Recycling as well as take part in a litter pick in March."

CAPTION(S):

MAJOR TASK: Tata Harrar, three, gets to work on a recycling project: CLEAN MACHINE: Lauren plant, three, with the recycling machine children have made: WINNER: Nathan Robson four, celebrates the Buffer Bear Nursery award ; VICTOR:Lauren plant with the award : PICTURES: LEANNE HOLCROFT www.chroniclelive.co.uk/buyaphoto ref: 01413970