Schools – last chance to enter Nature Hero Awards!

Pupils from Gaelscoil Dhroichead na Banndan, Co. Cork, Róisín Ní Chatháin, Sam Ó Deasúnaigh, Harry Ó Gaibhín and Úna Ní Éideáin, with Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage with special responsibility for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan, as applications for the fourth annual Nature Hero Awards close this month. (Pic: Cathal Noonan)

Ireland’s first standalone outdoor learning awards are calling for last entries, as the deadline for applications fast approaches. The annual Nature Hero Awards, coordinated by Biodiversity in Schools and in partnership with Glenveagh, is calling for all schools across the Republic of Ireland to submit their entries by the deadline of 29th May.

With an aim of creating an educational space that nurtures a love for nature, develops a knowledge of biodiversity and encourages action at grassroots level, the Nature Hero Awards are a mark of excellence for schools and recognise the exceptional work by young students and teachers to help nature.

The awards – Ireland’s largest outdoor learning awards for schools, involving thousands of students across pre, primary and secondary levels each year – cover many topics from biodiversity actions, conservation and ecological literacy to responsible citizenship as well as physical and mental wellbeing.

MAKE THAT DEADLINE

With only a few weeks to go, schools are encouraged to submit their applications to be in with a chance of winning a prize fund of up to €10,000, split between the top performing schools to upgrade their gardens. In addition, three levels of achievement are available for participating schools, including Bronze Badger, Silver Stag and Golden Eagle, each of which is marked with a sustainably made Irish wooden Nature Hero plaque.

This year marks Glenveagh’s fourth consecutive year supporting the Nature Hero Awards as part of its wider school engagement programme. 

The 2025/2026 Nature Hero Awards remain open for entries from all schools across the Republic of Ireland until 29th May and winners will be announced in September.

For your last chance to enter, go to: https://www.biodiversityinschools.com/nature-hero-awards