Bassingbourn Village College welcomed South Cambs MP Anthony Browne to showcase the work they have been doing to protect the environment.

During his visit, on Friday, January 13, Mr Browne had the opportunity to meet with a number of student ambassadors to discuss the projects they have been working on in school.

The school's environmental ambassadors outlined the recycling initiative they had introduced, their ambition for the school to achieve a no-single use plastic policy - and the obstacles that would need to be overcome - as well as future plans to plant 60 saplings on the school site.

Before his meeting with the student ambassadors, Mr Browne spent time with the principal Mrs Poulter, who shared the Bassingbourn Village College core values of 'respect, resilience and responsibility'.

She emphasised the importance of developing leadership skills in students through initiatives such as school council and student ambassadors - ensuring students leave as respectful and responsible members of the community.

Mrs Poulter said: "It was a pleasure to show Mr Browne around the school. I am very proud of the team here at Bassingbourn Village College and the diverse and personalised curriculum we offer our students. 

"I am delighted he was able to meet with some of our students so they could explain some of the initiatives they are leading in school, and I was given an opportunity to discuss with Mr Browne the challenges faced by all schools in the current climate."

Mr Browne, who previously worked as environmental editor for both The Observer and The Times, explained to the students how the Climate Change Act commits the government to have zero emissions by 2050, and that it is vital that students understand and drive change to make this happen.

Mr Browne said: "I was delighted to meet and hear from young members of the community. 

"It was encouraging to learn about the environmental initiatives the students of Bassingbourn Village College have introduced along with their plans for the future.  I look forward to being kept updated on how these progress and I am here to support in any way I can."