Today, I want to introduce you to an initiative that is revolutionising climate education across all disciplines – the Climate Ambassadors Scheme. The Scheme is a product of the UK Department for Education’s (DfE) Climate Change and Sustainability Education strategy. This strategy emphasises the need for each education setting to have a Climate Action Plan (CAP) and an appointed Sustainability Lead by 2025. Climate Ambassadors aims to match volunteer experts with education settings to develop CAPs in nurseries, schools and colleges.
The Climate Ambassadors Scheme and the ITE Framework
The Initial Teacher Education (ITE) framework sets out the principles and evaluation criteria for inspecting initial teacher education in England. The Climate Ambassadors Scheme aligns perfectly with these principles by providing resources and support to integrate climate education into all areas of learning, regardless of subject specialism. This cross-disciplinary approach not only enhances the initial teacher training experience but also ensures that future teachers are equipped to educate their students about the importance of climate literacy.
Here are some examples of synergy between the Climate Ambassadors scheme and the requirements for ITE:
- Sustainability Leadership: The Climate Ambassadors Scheme supports the development of Sustainability Leads in education settings. This aligns with the ITE framework’s emphasis on leadership development.
- Climate Science Education: The scheme provides resources and support to integrate climate education into all areas of learning. This enhances the scientific knowledge base of trainee teachers, a key aspect of the ITE framework.
- Environmental Education: The scheme empowers teachers of all subjects to bring climate into the classroom. This supports the ITE framework’s goal of providing a broad and balanced curriculum.
- Communications and Digital Infrastructure: The scheme supports schools and colleges to develop a climate action plan. This aligns with the ITE framework’s focus on effective communication and the use of digital technology in teaching.
Why Should You Get Involved?
As educators, we have a responsibility to prepare our students for the future. The Climate Ambassadors Scheme provides us with the resources and support to integrate climate education into our teaching, regardless of our subject specialism. Climate Ambassadors provide free support and advice for your setting to make strategic and practical change. They inspire learners, staff, and the wider network to act, focusing on why action on sustainability and climate change matters for you, your community, and the world. NASBTT, with its commitment to promoting high-quality school-led programmes of training, education, and professional development of teachers, aligns perfectly with the goals of the Climate Ambassadors Scheme. By participating in the scheme, NASBTT members can further enhance their contribution to the development of future teachers.
My Experience as a Climate Ambassador
As the Climate Ambassadors East of England Regional Hub Manager, and an active front-line Climate Ambassador myself, I’ve had the privilege of engaging with young minds, sparking their curiosity about our planet, and empowering them to take action. I’ve seen firsthand how this scheme equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to tackle the future in a changing climate.
During a recent podcast for climate researchers, I shared my experiences and the profound impact the scheme has had on me and the students I’ve worked with. From running workshops to mentoring young people in essential “green” skills for future jobs, every interaction has been a step towards a greener and more sustainable future.
You can listen to the podcast here.
Getting involved: Joining the Scheme
Whether you’re a teacher, a trainer, or just starting your career in education, your knowledge and enthusiasm can make a real difference. Join the scheme today and help shape the future of climate education, visit the website to find our more or get in touch with your Regional Hub Manager.
You can also get in touch with me directly on secondarygeography@nasbtt.org.uk