WHA hosts CLF successful second Environment Conference

More than 150 students came together for a day of environmental learning and action alongside some of the South West’s leading experts and biggest employers.

The Cabot Learning Federation (CLF) hosted its second annual Environment Conference at Winterstoke Hundred Academy in Weston-super-Mare.

Students from Weston’s Uphill Village Academy, Herons’ Moor Academy, Hans Price Academy, Haywood Village Academy and Winterstoke Hundred Academy were among those in attendance.

They were joined by representatives from a total of 22 primary and secondary schools from across the CLF, from Gloucester to Somerset. Each school was represented by eight students between the ages of seven and 16.

This celebration of environmental work across the trust’s academies was organised by the CLF’s Environmental Action Group (EAG) and involved 150 students who are active members of their academy Environment Committees.

Participants learned about their school’s environment impact, and showcased the work being done to reduce that impact.

The event was part of the CLF’s strategic commitment to environmentally-friendly practice, which aims for all its schools to hold Eco Schools Green Flag Status.

Across the day, students enjoyed a mix of expert panel discussions and workshop sessions which involved healthy debate and forward planning for future environmental initiatives.

Keynote speakers included Tom Walmsley of the Ministry of Eco, Paula Malone from Lets Go Zero, Josh Warren of UWE, Libby Watts, representing the North Somerset Climate Team, and Daryl Parker of Kier.

Additionally, there were exhibitors from organisations including Sustrans, Hinkley Point, Cleaner Coastlines, Bristol Airport Action Group, Aspens, Woodlands Trust, and UWE.

Sam Hodder, Principal of Uphill Village Academy and Chair of the CLF EAG, said: “This was a brilliant opportunity to get academies from across our trust together to build on the work of the many brilliant eco groups. The day provided the children with a space to share, celebrate and challenge their work against climate change.”

The event was a significant milestone in raising environmental awareness and action among young learners, encouraging them to take active roles in shaping a more sustainable future and protecting our planet.