A DONEGAL primary school and third-level institution were among the winners recognised at the first ever Re-turn Awards, which took place recently at a special ceremony at Croke Park.
The awards recognised schools and third level institutions that have gone above and beyond to “Re-turn it Right”, using recycling projects to support sustainability, fundraising and positive change within their communities.
St Aengus National School in Bridgend was among the primary school winners recognised, receiving the Re-turn Student Achievement Award and a €1,000 prize for its campaign supporting the school’s three autism classes.
The campaign was led by Jayden Duncan, a third class pupil and Green Leader, who collects returns from each classroom every Friday with support from SNA Niall. The initiative has raised funds for sensory equipment, resources, transport and activities, while building confidence, independence and practical life skills for pupils.
ATU Donegal was also recognised at third level, with the ATU Green Pantry Society receiving the Re-turn On-Campus Collaboration Award and a €700 prize for its zero-budget, collaborative campaign embedded in campus life.
Led by Charles Lukas Makio, with estates, catering, design, coordination and volunteer support, the project installed six branded collection stations and clear workflows. Funds are split between Donegal Hospice and the Green Pantry, which redistributes surplus food to students. With over €1,250 raised and 8,000 containers returned, the initiative is set to become a permanent campus fixture.
More than 370 primary schools and third level institutions from across Ireland entered the awards, highlighting the enormous enthusiasm among schools for sustainability, recycling and community action.
Pictured at the inaugural Re-turn Awards at Croke Park are pupils and teachers from St Aengus NS, Donegal, winners of €1,000 for their Re-turn Student Achievement Award-winning initiative. Photos: Conor McCabe Photography