Pupils Across The Partnership Trust Take Steps Towards a Cleaner Future
Children across schools in The Partnership Trust Multi-Academy Trust have been marking Clean Air Day (Thursday 18 June) by getting on their scooters and bikes, designing posters and learning more about the importance of clean air for everyone.
Pupils at Castle Primary School in Keynsham travelled to school by scooter and bike last Thursday. For children who travel by car they were encouraged to walk the final five minutes to school.
Pupil Arabella said:
“I felt excited to be able to scoot like my friends. I enjoyed the fresh air."
The Mendip School in Shepton Mallet organised a range of activities across all age groups. The special school, which has students aged 5-18, encouraged young people to enter a Clean Air-themed colouring competition, and designed posters. The school also displayed bunting and banners, highlighting the importance of clean air for everyone, and to encourage “No Idling” at school drop-off and pick-up times.
At St Mary’s Church of England Primary School and Nursery in Writhlington, Radstock the Clean Air message continued beyond last week with more children than ever walking, cycling and scootering to school since the installation of new bike and scooter storage. The church school has also been encouraging pupils to care for our world and take positive actions through themed collective worships.
Clean Air Day is the UK's largest air pollution campaign which highlights the impact poor air quality has on health. The Partnership Trust, a Multi-Academy Trust of 17 schools in B&NES and Somerset is working to reduce air pollution and make positive, sustainable choices across its settings. It has established a Climate Action Group to support schools to reduce carbon emissions, improve biodiversity and embed sustainability in the curriculum. As a result, schools now run pupil-led Eco Groups, have taken part in No-Mow May and are embedding initiatives such as solar panels.
Emily Massey, CEO of the Trust, said:
“Clean Air Day provides a valuable opportunity for children across the Trust to understand how the choices we make every day can have a positive impact on both our health and the environment. It has been fantastic to see pupils getting involved through active travel, creative activities and learning opportunities that highlight the importance of clean air for everyone. This Trust-wide effort on Clean Air Day highlights not only our commitment to sustainability, but the shared values across our school communities.”