Students cultivate eco awareness

Students at Axe Valley Academy in East Devon recently had the opportunity to interview BBC Radio Devon presenter and horticultural expert Toby Buckland for a national cross-school eco magazine. Produced by Devon-based environmental education organisation Little Green Change, the annual magazine showcases environmental action led by students across the UK.

During the interview, Buckland shared his expertise on wildlife-friendly gardening, including the best plants for bees and butterflies, the importance of switching to peat-free compost, and even revealed his most unusual plant choice. The students described the conversation as both inspiring and informative.

The magazine also includes student-led interviews with West Dorset MP and environmentalist Edward Morello, as well as representatives from the WWF. Articles written by secondary school students explore pressing topics such as microplastics, sustainable tourism, and how bottle collection schemes can help both the planet and pocket.

Primary schools across Devon were also featured for their involvement in Little Green Change’s Biodiversity in Schools Project. Schools including All Saints Primary (Axminster), Kenton Primary, Kenn Primary, Beer CE Primary, and Axminster Community Primary Academy were recognised for their environmental initiatives, including tree and bulb planting to boost local biodiversity.

Clare Matheson, founder and director of Little Green Change, said: “Our annual environmental magazine gives students a voice and a platform to share positive environmental stories and ideas. It’s fantastic to see such enthusiasm from young people and schools alike.”

Thanks to support from HMCK Charity, printed copies were produced on recycled paper and distributed to participating students, schools, and guests.

The magazine is available to read online at: littlegreenchange.com/magazine.
Secondary schools interested in contributing to the 2026 edition—or primary schools wishing to join the Biodiversity in Schools Project—can contact: info@littlegreenchange.com.