Gosfield School opens new Eco Centre to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility

A new facility focused on promoting environmental responsibility has opened its doors at a school on the Suffolk-Essex border.

Gosfield School officially opened the Phil Davies Eco Centre earlier this month to support pupils with their outdoor learning, and help them engage in sustainability and conservation.

The hub includes a yurt equipped with solar panels, a rainwater collection system, a compostable toilet, and eco-friendly furniture.

The ribbon cutting was carried out by the centre’s namesake, Phil Davies, a member of teaching staff for the last 25 years, in the company of colleagues, governors, students and their families.

Ahead of his retirement this year, the school paid tribute to Mr Davies for inspiring generations of students to explore nature.

School leaders stated that they are “thrilled to celebrate his remarkable legacy in this way”, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the establishment of Forest School in Gosfield.

They also voiced their gratitude to the school’s parent teacher association (PTA), whose fundraising over the last two years made the project possible.

Rod Jackson, principal at Gosfield School, said: “The eco centre represents everything we stand for at Gosfield: innovation, experiential learning and a holistic approach to education.

“Thanks to the remarkable commitment of our PTA and the inspirational leadership of Mr Davies, we now have a facility that will inspire generations to come about sustainability and the natural world.

“This hub for outdoor learning embodies the original vision of John Turner, Gosfield’s founding headmaster – a vision that Mr Davies has so passionately brought to life.

“The occasion marks a significant milestone in Gosfield School’s journey.

“We look forward to welcoming students, parents and the wider community to celebrate this exceptional achievement.”