Downe House, Berkshire (England’s Greenest School?)
Downe House (Berkshire) is working to become one of the most environmentally-friendly schools in England. It has won the top eco school award and has its own eco student committee.
It has no plastic bottles, a crisp packet recycling scheme and only uses free-range eggs (and holds Meat Free Mondays for everyone).
Food waste is collected to make into biogas, all lighting is LED, cups are made from bamboo and they plant trees and flowers for bees. Even old uniforms are gifted to help others.
Originally founded in Charles Darwin’s former home in Kent, 3o-year old ‘Miss Olive Willis’ had strong ideas on how girls should be educated.
Today the school focuses on compassion and even helps out at local allotments.
Well-known graduates are comedienne Miranda Hart, TV presenter Clare Balding and actress Geraldine James.
