Cheshire East’s primary school composting competition helps students rethink food waste

Cheshire East Council has announced the winners of its fun primary school composting competition, ‘Small hands, big impact.’ This competition invited schools to learn about composting and recycle their food and garden waste.

Earlier this spring, primary schools across the borough were encouraged to join the competition. Each school got a free compost bin to start their composting adventure!

This is the second of three competitions aimed at getting the next generation excited about recycling. The prizes for the winning schools were kindly sponsored by waste contractor Biffa who process Chesire East Recycling.

Composting demonstrations and assemblies were held at participating schools, with the support of three dedicated Cheshire East Waste Reduction Volunteers. They shared composting tips and showed everyone how to compost like pros.

A total of 16 primary schools and one youth club for primary-aged children took part, reaching more than 3,000 students and staff. Over 500 pupils got their hands dirty with fun composting activities during the competition.

The joint winners of the competition were Acton CE Primary Academy and Smallwood C of E Primary Academy. St John the Evangelist Church of England Primary School and Daven Primary School were the runners-up. All schools were praised for their hard work and dedication to being eco-friendly.

Pupils Molly and Theodore (aged 6) from Smallwood C of E Primary Academy said “we put in cardboard, leftover food and egg boxes, potato leaves and bits of newspaper. It was lots of fun!”

The council’s recycling team continues to build strong relationships with schools across the borough as part of its mission to promote recycling and reduce waste.

Councillor David Jefferay, chair of Cheshire East Council’s environment and communities committee, said:

"Getting young people involved in recycling and composting helps them see how small actions can make a big impact at school, at home, and in their communities. Their enthusiasm reflects the power of local action to reduce food waste and boost recycling.

"As someone who composts at home and on my allotment - with help from my chickens - I’ve seen how food and garden waste can become something valuable. It’s inspiring to see primary pupils embracing composting. They’re learning that it’s not just good for the planet, it’s something they can do right now. Their excitement and knowledge show how hands-on learning builds lifelong habits."

For more information about future competitions for primary and secondary schools, or to express interest in taking part, please email: 

recyclingcommunications@cheshireeast.gov.uk