PUPILS at Droitwich schools are being given the chance to become ‘litter warriors’ through free education sessions funded by Wychavon District Council.
More than 500 children have already taken part in the Covid-19 secure outdoor anti-litter sessions as part of the scheme which launched last month.
Pupils learn about why littering is anti-social, the damage it does to the environment and the risk it poses to wildlife.
They also take part in a litter pick with an added challenge to hunt out the oldest bit of litter they can find. The prize so far goes to a pupil at Abbey Park Middle School in Pershore who found a crisp packet dating back to 1981.
Teachers are also given a lesson plan to run follow-up sessions and are encouraged to sign up for the Wychavon Adopt a Street volunteer litter picking scheme, so pupils can continue to keep their community clean and tidy.
The sessions are run by local company Little Litter Warriors and funded as part of Wychavon’s anti-litter campaign. Every school across the district will be offered the chance to host at least one session per class every year.
Sharon Casswell, Wychavon District Council’s client services manager, said: “It is fantastic to see so many children getting involved in learning about the damage littering causes and doing something about it by signing up to become part of our Adopt a Street volunteer litter picking team.
“They are setting a fantastic example to others who I hope will be inspired to follow their lead and start putting their rubbish in the bin.”
Karen Blanchfield, Director of Little Litter Warriors, said: “This is an exciting opportunity educating pupils through schools on the impact of litter pollution.
“As a litter heroes ambassador for Keep Britain Tidy, I am passionate about educating children on why they should take individual responsibility with their litter decisions and why it is important to dispose of this litter responsibly.
“The litter pick practical sessions are a great way to engage the children in a fun outdoor litter hunt that brings to light just how long a piece of litter has remained in the environment.
“The teacher classroom sessions allow the children to share their ideas on how they can implement Wychavon’s Adopt a Street initiative to help manage the litter around their school community.
“I am delighted to be working with Wychavon who are investing in the environment for future generations.”
Schools in the district can book their free session by visiting www.wychavon.gov.uk/littering and following the link.
