Pupils from all 26 Futura schools discovered how to enhance biodiversity and minimise waste and energy consumption during this year’s ‘Speak Up for the Planet’ themed Futura Eco Summit.
It was organised as part of the Futura Climate and Nature Strategy and our commitment to equipping pupils with the knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to sustainability efforts.
Explorer, filmmaker, and environmental campaigner James Levelle delivered an inspiring launch for our primary pupils. Amy Bray, founder of Another Way, an educational charity focused on promoting change for the health of ourselves and the planet, presented the secondary launch.
Pupils from EYFS to Year 9 participated in a packed schedule of school-based activities. In primary schools, the activities included craft projects using recycled materials, minibeast hunts, and creating bee hotels and seed bombs. Secondary pupils took part in interactive workshops, habitat mapping, expert talks, pond dipping, and a Model UN Summit.
The summit was a massive success with the pupils. The activities engaged Harry in Year 9: ‘I enjoyed learning about climate change and the UN discussions.’
Others were inspired to ponder how to minimise their environmental impact. Amelia in Year 8 said: ‘I liked working out my carbon footprint. I’m going to think about how I can reduce it.’
Carla in Year 9 said: ‘I liked learning about food waste, and it’s made me think about how much I waste.’
Teachers also benefited, with one commenting: ‘As a total magpie, I am robbing lots of great things and making them my own. This is truly the best type of CPLD.’
Schools valued the summit. Headteacher Kathryn Deady thanked the event organisers: ‘I would like to thank the leaders for coordinating this event. I can say with authority that it was a really positive day here at Chilton Trinity.’
A massive thank you and congratulations to Emma Blunsum, Helen Muncer, and the school eco-leads for organising and delivering such an impactful event.
