Green Flag Energy

Online survey

Our survey indicated that levels of awareness were good.
65% of those surveyed knew the recommended temperature for a classroom was 18 ^oC.

Over half our participants were aware that it is estimated that we only have enough oil to last approx. 50 years. Participants showed good awareness regarding the savings that can be made by using energy saving light bulbs. Knowledge of renewable and non renewable sources of energy were also impressive

However, some responses demonstrated that there is room for improvement regarding practices at home. Examples include 73% of those surveyed tend to leave chargers pugged in when not using them. 76% leaving lights on when leaving the room, 59% boiling the full kettle for one cup of tea and 19% guilty of putting on the dishwasher or washing machine when only half full. Not surprising given that it is an all girls secondary school some VERY long showers were admitted. At least they were honest! We addressed these practices by trying to raise awareness in response to our findings. On the plus side we found some great practices regarding energy efficiency measures, for example, 75% responded that they have insulation in walls, attics or floors. 79% use low energy bulbs, 36% use draught proof measures on doors or windows and some vent reported impressive energy initiatives such a solar panels and heat recovery systems in their homes.

Green code

A -lways recycle
S- witch off
M -ake a difference
L- ove the planet

Exam years were not taken out of class, therefore, in class initiatives were devised for 3rd and 6th years mainly during RE and CSPE. Teachers made a particular effort to link energy where possible/appropriate.

1st years:

The first year students were invited to an Energy Action day organised by the Transition Year Students. The day started with a PowerPoint presentation from TY students on energy. The students were informed on the importance of conserving energy in the school and at home. The first years spent the next part of the day playing energy related games such as energy shot, battery toss, pin the switch on the lightbulb, face painting and true or false. Sweets and treats were green; overall the day was a great success. First year students were also took part in the energy poster competition.

2nd Years

                                                                                                                                          Second year students took part in a poster competition. They each had to design a poster to promote saving energy. The winner for the best poster will be chosen.

3rd Years

                                                                                                                                                  Third year students went on a trip to Seed Savers in Scariff, Co. Clare. On their trip the learned that as well as saving energy it’s also important to save seeds. This exciting and informative trip was organised by C.S.P.E teachers

TY

The Transition Year students were involved in an Eco class which took place three times a week. They were given a lot of control regarding planning initiatives that they felt would appeal to their fellow students and that would reduce our use of energy in the school. They carried out temperature checks in the classrooms. They also made sure appliances were not being left on when not in use around the school. If appliances were not turned off students would place a blue spot on them to remind the teacher to turn it off in future.  The TY students organised and participated in the big clean up with the skip. They ran the Energy Day for first year students. They also visited the Hydro-electric Power Station in Ardnacrusha and learned how hydroelectricity is made.