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Supporting Springhallow School’s Eco Refill Station: An Interview with Estine Kirsten

Ealing Broadway has proudly welcomed a unique and uplifting initiative, Springhallow School’s Eco Refill Station, this spring. Run by students from the school’s college, which supports young people on the autism spectrum, this inspiring pop-up has offered more than just eco-friendly household essentials. It’s created real-world learning opportunities, built confidence, and brought our community together in a meaningful way.

We sat down with Estine Kirsten, who supports the students at the stall, to learn more about the project, how it began, and the difference it’s making, not just for the environment but for the students themselves.

How did the Springhallow School Eco Refill Station begin?

Estine: We launched just before Christmas 2024. At first, we applied for a bursary through Pupils Profit but discovered it was only open to mainstream schools. We challenged that decision, showing that our college, designed for autistic learners, is a perfect environment for teaching sustainability through enterprise. We knew the initiative could also be embedded into our employability curriculum.

Because our college site doesn’t have much footfall, we knew we needed to go mobile. That’s what brought us to local fairs, events and now, to Ealing Broadway, where we’ve had such a fantastic welcome.

How have the students responded to running the refill station?

Estine: It’s been incredible. We made sure every class had a chance to contribute, some students designed names and logos for the stall, and we held a vote to choose our final branding. Others got involved behind the scenes, refilling bottles, applying labels, and preparing stock. It was really important to us that the project be student-led.

Every student at the college has taken part in some way. Watching their pride and excitement grow has been one of the best parts.

What kinds of skills are the students gaining?

Estine: This project has given our students valuable real-life experience, especially in communication and customer service. For many neurodivergent young people, talking with unfamiliar people can be a real challenge. So, we created scripts, practised role-playing scenarios, and slowly built up their confidence.

Being able to apply those skills here at Ealing Broadway, speaking to real customers, answering questions, and managing the stall is a huge achievement. It’s also helping them feel part of something bigger, something purposeful.

Why do projects like this matter for the students and the environment?

Estine: There are so many benefits. Of course, we’re promoting sustainability and encouraging people to reduce plastic waste. But we’re also helping our students explore who they are, what they’re good at, and how they can contribute.

Through this project, they’re learning safely and supported while engaging with the world around them. We’ve also met amazing people who’ve offered advice, encouragement, and support. It’s shown the students that they belong in their community and that what they’re doing matters.

How can the Ealing community continue to support the Eco Refill Station?

Estine: Come by when you see us at the centre, even just to say hello.

The students love engaging with the public; even a short conversation means a lot. Bring a clean, empty bottle for us to refill with shampoo, soap, conditioner, or laundry detergent if you can. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

And remember all profits go directly back into the Eco-refill Station. Every purchase helps us restock, grow, and continue offering this opportunity to future students.

A Final Word from Ealing Broadway

Andrew Rollings Centre Director at Ealing Broadway, added:

“We’re honoured to support Springhallow School and their incredible Eco-Refill Station. This project perfectly exemplifies what happens when education, sustainability, and community come together.

Thank you to Estine and every student who has brought this initiative to life. We’re proud to be part of your journey, and we know the Ealing community will continue to cheer you on.”

You can stay up to date with our community work at Ealing Broadway via our news page – https://www.ealingbroadwayshopping.co.uk/whatson

Last updated Thursday 8 May, 2025