PUPILS from Dirleton Primary School have been recognised for their green-fingered expertise at a national awards ceremony.

The school was one of more than 50 in the country celebrated at the annual Social Enterprise Academy Awards on June 9.

The primary school was recognised for using its school orchard to create its ‘Caring to the Core’ social enterprise.

The initiative sells organic fruit, vegetables and juices with a carbon footprint of zero at the village market.

Pupils and staff established the social enterprise to support people who had been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, with a particular focus on re-establishing intergenerational partnerships in the local area.

Brian Moody, headteacher at the primary school, said: “We are delighted to be recognised for the school’s commitment to social enterprise at the Social Enterprise Academy Awards.

“Social enterprise plays an important role in the development of our pupils and it is wonderful to see them celebrated for the work they are doing within our community to create the change they want to see in the world.

“Congratulations to all of the schools recognised at this special event.”

Launched in partnership with the Scottish Government in 2007, Social Enterprise Schools aims to help young people realise their potential and create the change they want to see in the world through purpose-driven businesses.

Schools throughout the country were celebrated for their creative and expressive examples of social enterprise, and 25 of the schools showcased their enterprise at a special social enterprise marketplace on the day.

Shirley-Anne Somerville MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, joined the celebration to show her support and congratulate young people on their success.

She said: “Social Enterprise Schools plays an extremely important role in the development of Scotland’s young people as we recover from Covid-19.

“By establishing a social enterprise in their school, pupils are engaging in the practical and creative skills required to run a business while making a difference to causes they truly care about.

“It has been wonderful to play a part in such a special day as we come together to celebrate the success of schools from across Scotland.”