Climate crisis declared by 15 local schools

A total of 15 local schools have declared a climate emergency

The Bath and North East Somerset schools include St Stephen’s Primary, Oldfield Park Infant and Kingswood School, as well as The Palladian Academy Trust.

By declaring a climate emergency it means they have pledged to put climate at the heart of everything they do.

The schools have been supported in their declarations by the Schools Climate Network (SCN), which was founded in Bath and North East Somerset last year.

The SCN aims to encourage and support all schools to respond to the climate emergency. It offers training sessions for teachers, practical advice on reducing environmental impact, and a place for decision makers to share ideas and best practice.

Alice Boden, one of the founders of the SCN, said: “Our children have had a tough six months, and it’s great to see them back at school. However, children and young people are facing an uncertain future as the planet heats up and carbon dioxide levels continue to rise”.

Fellow founder Councillor Tom Davies said: “Fifteen local schools – primary and secondary schools from both the state and independent sectors – have declared a climate emergency so far. This is really fantastic news and we hope that the momentum will continue to grow.”

Jo Marsh from the Palladian Academy Trust, who has also been with the SCN from the very start, said: “The last few months have given us all a chance to pause and see what is important.

“We want schools to join us in declaring a climate emergency through a simple vote at a governors’ meeting. Instead of asking ourselves why, we need to ask ourselves why not?”

Schools around the country will also be participating in an upcoming online youth climate summit in November, which is a week-long festival of themed discussions and activities.