The visit included a whole-school assembly where pupils learned about the harmful effects of litter on the environment, local wildlife, and communities, as well as practical ways everyone can help save the planet by clearing up after ourselves. Pupils were highly enthusiastic, asked thoughtful questions, and showed a strong interest in how their everyday actions can make a positive environmental impact.

Wombles In Litter Education (W.I.L.E) was founded by Geoff Walker and Keith Johnson. In 2020, following a request from a local school to deliver a talk on litter picking and environmental care, the initiative uncovered a strong passion for environmental education for young people. Since then, W.I.L.E has grown to more than 150 members across Leicestershire, who have collectively removed thousands of bags of litter from local areas.

Speaking during the school assembly, W.I.L.E member Ian said:

“It’s fantastic to see how passionate the children are about protecting the environment. They really understand that litter picking and responsible behaviour can help protect wildlife and keep their community clean and safe.”

Further to the visit, Albert Village Community Primary School is creating a new Eco Team, allowing pupils to actively support the local area through litter picking, recycling initiatives, and planting projects. This initiative will empower pupils to take ongoing responsibility for environmental sustainability within their community.

Cheryl Lott, Headteacher at Albert Village Community Primary School, added:

“The visit from W.I.L.E was extremely valuable. The children were fully engaged and came away with a clear understanding of why caring for the environment matters. It supports our school values and our commitment to environmental education.”

What Wombles In Litter Education (W.I.L.E) Does

W.I.L.E works across Leicestershire and surrounding areas, supporting schools and communities through:

Whole-school assemblies in primary and secondary schools

Supporting and advising on school and class litter picks

Engagement with community groups, Scouts, and youth organisations

Collaboration with local councils, volunteers, and education partners

Supporting and mentoring school eco clubs

Mentoring young people completing litter-picking volunteering for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme

Supporting schools and communities looking to start their own environmental or litter-picking initiatives

The visit to Albert Village Community Primary School demonstrates how environmental education, community volunteering, and litter awareness can inspire young people to protect wildlife and care for their local environment.

For more information about W.I.L.E, click here to visit their website.

Could you support Albert Village Primary School and their eco team? Contact via 01283 217880 or office@albertvillage.risemat.co.uk