Last week saw over 80 primary and secondary school students from across Bracknell Forest come together to address climate change action.
Following the success of the first schools’ climate change conference in 2022, two impactful conferences were held this year to include primary school students as well as secondary.
Secondary students from Garth Hill College, Ranelagh, Sandhurst School, Brakenhale School and Kings Academy Easthampstead Park gathered at Sandhurst School to work with local charities, community groups and environmental groups on actions they can take to enact change. Each school devised a goal statement with ideas for sustainability projects they can start at their own schools.
Students from 14 local primary schools enjoyed a separate conference hosted at Garth Hill College. The children took part in indoor and outdoor activities to learn about energy use, food and biodiversity. Each school made a pledge, committing to specific actions to help improve sustainability with their school.
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Both conferences were attended by the leader of the council and members of the council’s executive, so they could take on board the views of young people and collaborate on how they can be more climate conscious.
Cllr Roy Bailey, executive member for children and young people, said: “Education plays a crucial role in tackling climate change. Students will grow up thinking about the effect they have on the environment and making greener choices.
“Our students are not only learning about sustainability; they’re leading by example, and we look forward to supporting their climate change goals.”
Cllr Mary Temperton, leader of the council and executive member for council strategy and climate change, said: “Climate change needs all of us to work together. These conferences show how much we can achieve when we join forces. I can’t wait to see the students start working on their projects they have pledged to complete.”
To find out more about the council’s climate change action, visit its climate change webpages.
