We hear from Sarah Ellis, Assistant SENCO and DSL at Dukesgate Academy, Salford, who has told us about a recent visit to Oxford University with a team of students who have been hosting a School Eco Refill Shop as part of the 2025 Programme. Over to Sarah…
Paving the Way for a Greener, More Connected Future In a world where every action matters, five remarkable Year 6 students have taken the initiative to lead by example.
Our School Eco Shop, D.A.R.E. – Dukesgate Academy Refill Emporium – is more than just a project; it’s a movement fuelled by passion and determination. Recently, these young leaders took centre stage, sharing their vision and hard work with over 100 fellow students, teachers, and representatives from United Learning. Their presentation was not only informative but deeply inspiring, shining a light on the impact of small but meaningful steps toward sustainability.
At the heart of their initiative is a commitment to reducing plastic waste. By offering alternatives and educating their school community, they have successfully diverted a significant number of plastic bottles from ending up in landfills. This achievement stands as a powerful reminder that even the youngest changemakers can make a real difference. But their message extended beyond numbers – it was about empowerment.
Standing before their audience, they spoke of the sense of purpose their project had instilled in them. They now recognise that, although saving the planet is a vast challenge, their efforts contribute to a larger movement. They understand that small steps lead to great strides, and they take pride in knowing that their actions inspire others to follow suit.
This is what our Year 6 Leaders said about the visit and their shop:
‘It was the best train ride I’ve ever been on- I had never been on a train before’
‘I loved presenting our project on the stage’
‘We got to experience a great opportunity visiting a prestigious university’
‘We had a chance to share our project with several other schools-I was really proud’
‘It is an excellent way to recycle’
‘We supported our community by reducing plastic waste’
‘It’s more cost effective to buy shampoo and body wash’
Looking Ahead
A Community Space for Lasting Impact D.A.R.E. is just the beginning. The school’s ambitious future vision is to create a dedicated community space, positioning a fully-equipped shipping container in an unused area of the staff car park. This space will become a hub for sustainability and community support, bringing together past and present student-led initiatives under one roof. The container will house the Eco Shop, continuing the mission of reducing waste and promoting environmental consciousness. It will also feature a clothes bank – a project initiated by last year’s student leaders – ensuring that good-quality clothing finds new homes rather than becoming waste.
In addition, the space will serve as a community café and food bank, offering a welcoming environment where people can come together, share resources, and support one another. This initiative reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and social responsibility.
By empowering students to take the lead in shaping their school’s future, it reinforces the idea that small actions lead to meaningful change. D.A.R.E. is not just an Eco Shop; it is a beacon of hope, a testament to what young minds can achieve when driven by passion and responsibility. With leaders like these paving the way, the future of sustainability is bright—not just within the school but for the entire community.
For further information about the programme visit: Greater Manchester School Eco Refill Programme or email GreenCitySchools@greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk
