Schools Climate Change Workshops

• The workshops teach young people about STEM and the global challenge of climate change in an exciting and engaging way, improving their environmental understanding and behaviour

• Over 600 children piloted the workshops in schools across Bristol and surrounding areas such as Patchway Community School, Wellsway Secondary and Nova Primary

Various activities for the pilot workshops were tried and tested with students in Key Stage 2, 3 and 4. 

Using a new large island model, Key Stage 2 students explored how an island community can be affected by our choices through taking part in five interactive games and how these will result in an increase in carbon dioxide emissions, rising sea levels and loss of habitats, crops and species. 

A Climate Change Theme Day designed for students across Key Stage 3 and 4 investigated the challenges and potential solutions needed to limit the devasting effects of climate change – such as the greenhouse effect and the changing landscape of energy production. An interactive whole-class card game was developed where groups of students represented different continents. The winners aimed to create the strongest economy, however if the resulting environmental damage hits a threshold the game ends! The game was played multiple times with teams realising they must act globally to avoid disaster.

Feedback showed an improvement in STEM confidence and empowerment to make great environmental decisions. Teachers and students responded overwhelmingly positively to the workshops, emphasising their relevance to everyday life. 

“I felt the workshop presented an authentic opportunity for our pupils to develop their scientific enquiry skills. Each activity was engaging and educationally rich. I observed pupils hold many valuable discussions when evaluating their choices.” - Bristol KS2 Class Teacher

“Thank you for coming and being adaptable! The children had a great time. Staff enjoyed the workshop, thought it made climate change very visual for children and allowed them to clearly see the impact of their choices on the environment.” - Wellsway Secondary

The workshops have now been launched at We The Curious for schools to book as part of our education activities and hope to engage over 13,000 young people across the South West of England over the next five years.