Harpenden Day Nursery and Kiddi Caru Day Nursery and Preschool in Hitchin, part of Grandir UK, have been awarded the Eco-Schools Green Flag.

This is an international accreditation that celebrates schools and nurseries embedding environmental awareness into daily life.

The award is given to settings that follow a seven-step framework to empower children and staff to take positive action for the planet through hands-on, engaging experiences.

This includes projects such as developing wildlife habitats, setting up swap shops to reduce waste, and taking part in national initiatives like the Big Bird Watch and National Bee Day.

The nurseries successes were supported by Grandir UK’s Sow & Grow programme, which introduces sustainability to children aged two to five.

The scheme encourages youngsters to grow and care for fruits, vegetables, and flowers while learning about food sources and environmental responsibility through gardening and eco-focused activities.

These activities also support early years development by improving physical skills, introducing basic maths and science concepts, and encouraging confidence, independence, and healthy eating.

A spokesman for Grandir UK said: “We are delighted to announce that two of Grandir UK’s nurseries in Hertfordshire have been awarded the Eco-Schools Green Flag, a recognition of their outstanding commitment to sustainability and environmental education.”