Applications Now Open for 2026 Nature Hero Awards

At Glenveagh, we are proud to continue our sponsorship of the Nature Hero Awards, Ireland’s largest outdoor learning initiative across the education sector. Now in its fourth year, the awards are coordinated by Biodiversity in Schools and celebrate the incredible efforts of schools in promoting biodiversity and environmental awareness through creative, hands-on learning.

Each year, thousands of students from pre-school to secondary level take part in the programme, which is designed to inspire a love for nature, build knowledge of biodiversity, and empower young people to take action at a local level.

Win part of a €10,000 outdoor garden prize fund for your school

There are lots of Nature Hero prizes including Bronze Badger, Silver Stag & Golden Eagle awards. The overall Nature Hero Award winner will receive a school garden makeover worth up to €5,000, courtesy of Glenveagh.

National Recognition and Government Support

Speaking at the launch, Christopher O’Sullivan, T.D., Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, praised the initiative:

“The Nature Hero Awards play a strong role in developing children’s knowledge of biodiversity, encouraging an awareness and love of nature among the schoolchildren who will become the guardians of Ireland’s biodiversity.”

Glenveagh’s Commitment to Community and Sustainability

At Glenveagh, supporting initiatives like the Nature Hero Awards aligns with our core values of sustainability, education, and community building. We believe that vibrant, lasting communities start with young people who are connected to their environment and inspired to protect it.

Annette McGarry, Head of Community Engagement at Glenveagh, said:
“We’re proud to continue our sponsorship of the Nature Hero Awards. After the success of last year’s awards, we can’t wait to see the biodiversity projects that students will complete this year.”

A Strong and Growing Partnership

This marks Glenveagh’s fourth consecutive year supporting the Nature Hero Awards as part of our wider schools engagement programme. Our partnership with Biodiversity in Schools plays an important role in helping us support the next generation through meaningful environmental education.

Mark Nolan, CEO and Founder of Biodiversity in Schools, added:
“We’re looking forward to working with schools to increase their knowledge of biodiversity in a fun and collaborative environment. We would like to thank Glenveagh, who are our sponsors for the fourth year in a row.”

Get Involved

Applications for the 2026 Nature Hero Awards are now open to pre-schools, primary and secondary schools across the Republic of Ireland.

To find out more or to apply, click here.