Prestigious art award for school at Natural History Museum

Children from a West Norfolk primary school have been recognised for their artwork illustrating concern for the environment.

A total of 11 children from Burnham Market Primary School worked on a sculpture which was recognised at an awards event in London earlier this month.

The sculpture, which depicted a local sand dune habitat, was announced as the winner of the David Shepherd award at the Natural History Museum.

Named after the wildlife artist and conservationist, the award was part of the Global Canvas Children’s Art competition.

Half of the Burnham design was created from natural materials to show how the world should be.

However, the other half was created using plastic flowers and crisp packets, portraying the world’s harmful habits.

Headteacher Rosie Newport said: “The children have worked really hard and are so passionate about the environment and the impact humans are having on our world.”

The ceremony took place on Thursday, March 7 with 17 other schools showcasing their work alongside Burnham.

Holly Newport, a pupil at the school, said: “We were so excited when we heard.

“Me and my friend Kate regularly walk along the coast and pick up litter.

“We were really keen to show how litter and plastic destroys our world.”

The 18 schools in attendance had been selected from 24 countries across four continents.

Over 5,000 children had taken part in the competition, which took the theme of ‘Habitats of the World’ this year.

Eli Catt, another youngster at the school, said: “I enjoyed making the sculpture and would love to take part in it again next year. London was amazing.”

Pupil Annabelle Hewitt added: “It was amazing getting the David Shepherd award, he is really famous.”