Matt Willer (pictured), who teaches history at Reepham High School & College, won the Eco Hero award, sponsored by Vattenfall, after a public vote that received an impressive 3,217 votes.
 
Mr Willer launched the Allotment Project in 2015 on an abandoned corner of the school playing field. The judges praised his “commitment and energy to both sustainability and to teaching. We were really inspired by the humility he brings to the project.”
 
The Allotment Project at Reepham High School also won £500 in the secondary school category, sponsored by Veolia – the second time the school has won the award.
 
The judges noted that last year’s win had spurred the project to achieve even more this year. They were impressed by the innovation shown and in particular the allotment’s sustainable irrigation system, outdoor eco classroom and rope pump to collect rainwater.
 
Mr Willer, who received a handmade sustainable wood trophy, thanked those who nominated and voted for him, adding: “Of course, the greatest reward is working with the children and young people; nothing comes even close to this.”
 
See our earlier news story:

• High school teacher nominated for ‘eco hero’ award