Pupils from Rookwood School were recently invited to attend Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots Annual Awards Ceremony at The Barbican Centre, London.
Their efforts to help various animals, as well as the environment, were recognised by Dr Jane Goodall, renowned primatologist, environmentalist and humanitarian. The children were thrilled to attend and were delighted to receive a prestigious Roots & Shoots Award as one of 12 schools shortlisted out of 2000.
On their arrival, Zara, Phoebe, Archie and Lexie from Years 5 and 6 were given 45 minutes to set up a stand to showcase the brilliant work of the Pre-Prep, Prep and Senior School children.
The projects on show included the Growers Club’s activities. In particular, the club’s sustainable planting project and their successful flower and plant sales, which raise money for the group’s eco-friendly projects. Additionally, the pupil’s work with Andover Trees United and Plant for The Planet was also on display. Specifically, their project involving planting trees in the school nursery bed before re-planting them in Harmony Woods, Andover’s community woodland.
The Pre-Prep and Prep School’s shoeboxes for stray and homeless dogs in Romania received the most attention from the judges. Prior to their Harvest Festival last October, pupils chose to support the ‘New Moon’ animal sanctuary by making up shoe boxes containing tinned dog food, collars, leads, beds and toys. Over 100 shoeboxes were shipped to Romania, where they have helped over 100 dogs.
Mr Heath said, “I am very proud of everyone for their amazing work to help vulnerable animals and the environment and I am delighted that the children’s’ efforts have been recognised at both a national and international level.”
Roots & Shoots is an internationally recognised education programme for young people that encourages children to implement practical positive change for people, animals and the environment.
