A Meath preschool has received national recognition for its work helping young children connect with nature and biodiversity.
Giggles Outdoor Preschool has been named Best Preschool in the 2026 Glenveagh Nature Hero Awards, one of four national category winners announced this year.
The awards celebrate schools and preschools that take practical steps to support wildlife, improve biodiversity and help children develop a stronger understanding of the natural world.
Giggles Outdoor Preschool received a €1,000 prize after taking the top honour in the preschool category.
Four national winners
Scoil Mhuire in Borrisokane, Co. Tipperary was named Best Primary School, while Ramsgrange Community School in Co. Wexford received the Best Secondary School award.
Portumna Community School in Co. Galway was named the overall national winner and received €5,000.
More than 70 awards were presented across the wider programme this year, including Golden Eagle, Silver Stag and Bronze Badger awards.
Connecting children with nature
The Nature Hero Awards are coordinated by Biodiversity in Schools and supported by Glenveagh.
The programme encourages schools to create spaces where children can learn about biodiversity, take part in conservation activities and develop a lasting connection with nature.
Projects can cover areas including wildlife habitats, school gardening, pollinators, ecoliteracy, conservation and outdoor learning.
Annette McGarry, Head of Community Engagement at Glenveagh, congratulated the Meath preschool on its success.
“Every year, the Nature Hero Awards show just how much can be achieved when young people are given the opportunity to engage with nature in a meaningful and hands-on way.
“A huge congratulations to everyone at Giggles Outdoor Preschool on being named Ireland’s Best Preschool in this year’s awards. Introducing children to nature from such a young age can help build a connection with the natural world that stays with them as they grow, and it is fantastic to see that being embraced so enthusiastically in Meath.”
‘A fantastic example’
Mark Nolan, Director of Biodiversity in Schools, said the standard of entries this year showed the amount of work being done in schools around the country.
“The standard of entries to this year’s Nature Hero Awards demonstrated the extraordinary work taking place across Ireland to support biodiversity. Giggles Outdoor Preschool is a fantastic example of how engaging with nature can begin from the earliest years, and we’re delighted to recognise their efforts with this national award.”
Entries open for 2027
The Nature Hero Awards will return in 2027, with entries already open to preschools, primary schools and secondary schools around the country.
Schools are encouraged to show how they are supporting biodiversity, creating habitats and helping children and young people engage with nature.
Full details are available through the Nature Hero Awards programme.
