The Green Schools Challenge 2025 Grand Final on December 1st was an absolutely brilliant day for innovation and sustainability at The Gateway in Aylesbury.
In the weeks leading up to the big day, six Year 12 teams from schools across Buckinghamshire had been preparing their sustainability projects with the support of business mentors. On the day of the final, each team presented their ideas to a Dragons' Den-style judging panel.
Congratulations go to the winning team (pictured above) from The Buckingham School for their idea: ‘Junk to Genius’!
Aylesbury High School won in the 'Most Innovative' category with their idea: ‘Pedals that Power.’
The team from John Colet School were rewarded with the 'Best Social Media' award.
Plaudits also go to the teams from The Highcrest Academy, Waddesdon Church Of England School, and St Michael's Catholic School for their exceptional commitment throughout this challenge.
Credit goes to all the business partners who have mentored the students throughout the challenge: Biffa, Construction Specialties, OCU Group, Shellwin Real Estate, WhiffAway Group, and Zenopa. They have shown how businesses can get involved and inspire young people - with their expertise and generosity in sharing knowledge proving instrumental in shaping these young sustainability leaders.
The energy and creativity on display showcased exactly why this challenge matters so much. The students worked tirelessly with their business mentors, refining their proposals to help their schools reduce their carbon footprint, and it also helped them to explore real-world green careers.
From waste management innovations to sustainable construction solutions, waterless technology, and property development, each project represented genuine thinking about environmental challenges.
The final presentations demonstrated why youth leadership in sustainability is so crucial. These students are not just learning about green skills, they're developing the confidence, creativity, and problem-solving abilities that will define their careers and impact the environment for decades to come.
Thanks to Association for Project Management and Buckinghamshire Council for their support in delivering the Green Schools Challenge 2025.
