Prendergast Community Primary School pupils are buzzing to have been awarded ‘Bee Friendly’ status by the Welsh Government.

The award recognises the pupils’ commitment to supporting pollinators and promoting biodiversity, with a key focus on pollinator conservation.

Their work, both in the classroom and with hands-on projects, has been highlighted in a recent case study report which outlines how pupils have developed an understanding of how vital pollinators like bees, butterflies and hoverflies are to ecosystems and food production.

It also reflects the school’s broader aim to encourage pupils to contribute positively to the world, guided by their motto ‘Believe and Achieve’.

Learners have been growing their own plants, especially those loved by pollinators, and selling them in their pay-as-you-feel Bocs Bwyd shop, where surplus food from local businesses is passed on to save on waste.

Last year the school was extremely fortunate to acquire a large field that is being transformed into an outdoor area designed to support learning about biodiversity and sustainability, with support from Keep Wales Tidy Supersize Development Package.

The Pembrokeshire Nature Partnership, with Pembrokeshire County Council’s Conservation Team, has provided guidance on developing diverse habitats in the area, as well as encouraging a wildflower meadow in part of the field.

The habitat the school is creating will support pollinators and other wildlife as well as a providing living classroom for hands-on environmental education.

Prendergast CP School will be working with Pennar Community School, with support from the Darwin Centre, Pembrokeshire Outdoor Schools and Pembrokeshire Nature Partnership, to conduct biodiversity surveys on pollinators and local wildlife as part of wider biodiversity studies.

Headteacher Louise John said: “Our pupils and staff are proud of the recognition of their efforts in gaining Bee Friendly Status for their commitment to enhancing the school environment to support biodiversity activities at Prendergast School.

“The Bocs Bwyd is integral to our school curriculum and all pupils will learn about, grow and cook food to support their health and practice sustainability goals.”

Any other organisations interested in becoming more bee friendly can contact Pembrokeshire County Council’s Biodiversity Implementation Officer [email protected]