During the week prior to the February 2024 half term, pupils in Years 7-10 had assemblies focusing on climate change and the Cirencester Town Council Climate Competition.

Each assembly addressed the topic of climate change, drawing on resources from the United Nations and others, before reflecting on the recent COP28 summit held in the United Arab Emirates. The key agreements at COP28 included the creation of a fund to support developing nations in combatting the impacts of climate change and a deal to ‘transition’ away from fossil fuels. COP28 was the first time that fossil fuels, which UN sources state contribute around 75% of greenhouse gases, were mentioned in a COP resolution.

Pupils are encouraged to focus on the impact that individuals can have in reducing the impacts of climate change and were introduced to The Earthshot Prize, an environmental competition launched by HRH the Prince of Wales in 2020. There are 15 prizes of £1million to fund projects designed to protect and restore nature, clean our air, revive our oceans, build a waste-free world, and fix our climate. It is an international competition, and winners consistently produce incredible concepts and projects that play a vital role in combating climate change.

Finally, pupils were introduced to the Cirencester Town Council Climate Competition. Organised and funded by the Cirencester Town Council, the climate competition follows The Earthshot Prize model, with residents being encouraged to create a proposal for an eco-friendly community project that will increase biodiversity, reduce waste, and reduce the town’s carbon footprint. The winning projects will secure £1,000 in funding and council support for their projects. The deadline for entries is 31 March 2024.  Find out more...

We look forward to seeing the proposals submitted to the Cirencester Town Council and hope that Deer Park pupils can play a leading role in the winning projects.