Torrential rain and gales last Friday 18th June couldn’t dampen the spirits of Year 6 pupils from Noremarsh Junior School, as they donned their waterproofs and got down to the job of picking up litter from around Royal Wootton Bassett.
The pupils, who are between 10 and 11 years old, borrowed litter pickers and rubbish rings from the Royal Wootton Bassett Environmental group and spent several hours picking up litter from pavements, pathways and within Noremarsh Park.
The initiative was part of Noremarsh Junior School’s Forest Fridays, which have been running throughout the current term. Forest Fridays aim to support the pupils’ learning by enjoying being outdoors, promoting teamwork and cooperation with others, and having a positive impact on their environment.
Headteacher Andy Simpson said that despite the grim weather conditions the litter picking session was a huge success.
“64 pupils took part and spent a good few hours diligently picking up all the litter they could find,” said Mr Simpson.
“They had to face some very heavy downpours and gusts of wind, but we didn’t hear a word of complaint from any of them, and we had some lovely feedback from the local residents saying what a good job they were doing and how community spirited it was.
“The time spent in the classroom is obviously very important for pupils, but it is equally important that they experience time outside, in the environment where they and the rest of the community live. If our young citizens can learn how we all have a responsibility to care for the planet that is our home, we have a far better chance of the next adult generation treating the environment with the respect it deserves.”
