Young environmentalists have taken part in the diocese’s second annual Eco Conference and activity day to learn new skills, inspire and encourage others.

Children from church schools’ Eco Committees gathered at Truro Methodist church on March 4.

Children speaking from the pulpit.The day was designed for pupils, who have responsibility for leading environmental school projects, to meet, share ideas and learn new skills. It also showed how the important work they do in their schools was part of something bigger.

The event started with a welcome from Clare Green, Diocese of Truro’s Schools’ Creation Care Officer, before Revd Hugh Barnes, from Kea Church, talked about Creation Care.

Pupils were then invited to speak about what they do in their eco clubs to help the environment.

The rest of the day was dedicated to workshops run by a number of groups including the Diocese of Truro, Cornwall Community Flood Forum, Suez and Corserv.Two children looking at the camera.

Children made bee bombs, planted tomato seed and beans, took part in a mindfulness session, learnt about green energy, recycling and how to use water wisely, as well as other activities.

Anja, St Meriadoc Juniors and Infants Academy, said: “It was really interesting. It was very eco-friendly. The activities were creative and fun. I am glad I came.”

A child holding a bundle of sticks.Vivi, Millbrook Church of England Primary School, said: “I feel very happy to be part of this. It feels very special because I have never been part of this kind of big activity.”

Edith, St Mary’s Church of England Primary School, said: “It is really inspiring how everyone came and helped with their ideas. We can share all the ideas.”

Alice, St Mary’s Church of England Primary School, said: “It’s really inspiring and when we get back to school and share all the ideas, we can expand on them and become more eco-friendly.”

James Biscoe, member of the Cornwall Community Flood Forum, said: “I really think they have learned something today.”A child with muddy hands looking at the camera.

Zoe Hilditch, Environmental Sustainability Manager at Cormac, said: “The event has been really engaging.

“The children have all been interested in what we were saying.”

Sarah Broomhead, Family Liaison Officer at St Meriadoc Juniors and Infants Academy, said: “This has absolutely been fantastic. It is a wonderful opportunity for the teachers to network and for the schools to mix and share ideas.”

Children watching a workshop demonstration before they give it a go.Johanne Rickard, Schools Eco Representative at Millbrook Church of England Primary School, said: “This is a great idea for resources, bringing ideas and magpieing other ideas from other schools.”

Clare said: “It was lovely to see so many eco schools at the conference. It only happens once a year when schools all get together and talk about what others are doing.

“It was good to see so many children keen to learn and help the planet.

“I was overwhelmed by the knowledge and enthusiasm of our young people, what a blessing to spend the day with them.

 

 

Photograph credit: PR4Photos.