Students work in Partnership to take up the ‘Climate Challenge’ – Clifton College

At the “Climate Challenge” on Wednesday 9th October, each school made pledges for their schools to address climate change to a panel of environmental specialists. These pledges were developed by the pupils themselves, were made with approval from Headteachers and Governing Bodies, and will begin to address some of the key challenges we face.

This is the first collaboration of the Bristol Educational Partnership in which nine Schools from across the City will work with City Council as well as Bristol University and the University of the West of England to address key issues affecting our young people.

Clifton College students have been working with the sustainability charity Sustrans to focus on reducing the environmental impact of existing transport arrangements as well as developing ever- more sustainable menus in BSK, and developing wild spaces and animal habitats.

Head Master, Dr Tim Greene, said “ It is excellent to see our pupils leading the way in such an immensely important area as climate change. The College looks forward to developing the plans put forward by this group today”.

Guest speakers at the event included Doug Allan from BBC Blue Planet, OVO Energy and Bristol Youth Mayors. Councillor Anna Keen, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills said: “At a city level, the council is working independently and with partners to reduce carbon emissions, generate cleaner energy and improve air quality. This project demonstrates that whilst there is significant action being taken, tackling climate change is not all about the headline actions.

“Bristol has declared a climate emergency and is responding with action – we all have a part to play in helping our city become carbon neutral by 2030.”

The Soil Association, Sustrans, Avon Wildlife Trust, the Centre for Sustainable Energy, Action for Conservation, Resource Futures and Geneco supported students with their projects in a preliminary workshop held at the M Shed on Monday 30th September.

The event also saw the launch of the Bristol Educational Partnership in which maintained schools, independent schools and the city’s Universities have committed to collaborate on projects with Bristol City Council.  The aims of the Partnership are to overcome disadvantage, raise aspiration, broaden education, and support teachers in continuing professional development.

Find out more about the Partnership at: https://www.bristollearningcity.com/education/bristol-education-partnership/

Follow the Partnership on Twitter @Bristollearning