Reaching 340 children across three UK schools (Years 3–6) about climate change and its impact on the Arctic.
There has been a noticable absence of climate change topics in the national primary school curriculum, however this is something Wicked Weather Watch has been looking to address for the last 15 years, bringing the Arctic into classrooms and inspiring over 31,000 young people to understand climate change and feel empowered to take action.
The Alpkit Foundation feel honoured to have been able to support one of their more recent climate change workshops before they sadly had to close. However, their legacy is being continued through Better Planet Education.
Their director, Rhainna Davies-Smith got in touch with the Alpkit Foundation looking for support its dynamic virtual workshops, making an impact on the entirety of a schools Key Stage 2.
“These sessions empower young minds with knowledge about climate change science, intricately linking UK actions with the Arctic. Real-life experiences, including those of modern-day Arctic explorers like founder Sir David Hempleman-Adams, are woven into the curriculum to foster empowerment, reduce eco-anxiety, and motivate children to take positive climate action.”
A grant of £250 went to enable them to educate 340 children across three UK schools (Years 3–6) about climate change and its impact on the Arctic. Through this initiative, students engaged with experts from Wicked Weather Watch, Polar Bears International, and Hearts in the Ice.
“A highlight of the workshop was hearing from Hilde Fålun Strøm, an Arctic explorer who shared her first hand experiences of climate change. Hilde captivated the students with her stories of living for a year in an uninsulated wooden cabin in the Arctic, alongside another explorer, with polar bears as her closest neighbours. Her incredible journey inspired the children to consider their own actions to combat climate change and reduce their carbon footprint.”
It was great to hear how the workshops received excellent feedback from students and teachers alike, with many children expressed their intention to adopt sustainable practices following the sessions, demonstrating the event’s success in inspiring meaningful change.
So while it is sad to hear that Wicked Weather Watch has had to close, we hope that their long running passion continues through Better Planet Education to enthuse and encourage future generations through engaging environmental education.
Get involved or find out more.
Inspired? Follow what Better Planet Education are doing and what they may be able to offer.