Episode 65: Teaching about Climate Change with Protect Our Future

The Learning Scientists Podcast

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Show Notes:

In Episode 65, Althea interviews Lyndsey-Lee Dunwoody (@LyndseyDunwoody) of 1851 Trust (@1851Trust) about their new platform Protect Our Future.

New research amongst 11-16 year-olds commissioned by 1851 Trust and environmental charity Hubbub reveals that more than half of children (51%) are worried about what the planet will be like in the future. However, the research also found that almost a third (31%) of 11-16 year-olds say they are unclear on what measures they can take to be more environmentally friendly, which is acting as a barrier to them taking action. Only a quarter feel climate change is something they can fix, while 14% said they don't feel like their actions will make a difference.

Teachers are feeling similarly at a loss as to what they can do to support learning in this area, with 70% saying they do not feel equipped to teach about climate change effectively.

Climate and sustainability education are soon to become part of the school curriculum in the UK, yet young people and teachers alike are feeling ill-equipped and powerless to play their part in the vital action needed to tackle the climate emergency. In response to this, the education charity 1851 Trust has declared its ambition to help 1 million young people take action to protect nature, people and the planet through its new Protect Our Future platform. Listen to the episode to learn more.