In order to reduce its carbon footprint, Oakham School has pledged to have a ‘greener’ Christmas across the campus this year.
Following a 30-day sustainability challenge in the upper school during November, staff and pupils have been continuing their pledges with the aim of creating a more environmentally friendly Christmas.
The East Midlands independent school has rented real trees from a service called Love a Christmas Tree, with the trees to be returned to the company after the holidays. The trees will then be replanted on the same farm where they were grown, so they are ready to use again next year, reducing the waste of having different trees each year.
In the lower school, boarding pupils have made different sustainable products for their houses whilst learning how to be more environmentally responsible.
Pupils used computer-aided designs (CAD) and a laser cutter to produce their own Christmas tree decorations. They were made out of laser ply and acrylic off cuts from a manufacturing company that would have disposed of the excess material.
Kelly Gibbons, design and technology teacher, said: “Our lower school boarders have thoroughly enjoyed their practical sustainability tasks and have learnt many new skills along the way to help enhance their learning and practical skills.
“By using cut off materials, pupils have learnt that whilst helping the environment in reducing waste they can create some lovely Christmas decorations which can be used for many years to come.”
The boarders finished the term by making personalised soaps for Christmas gifts.
Oakham School educates day and boarding boys and girls between 10 and 18 years old.
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