Children across schools in the The Partnership Trust have been taking part in activities to mark Clean Air Day, helping pupils learn about the importance of cleaner air and more sustainable travel.
Schools across the trust celebrated the national awareness day on 18 June through a range of activities including cycling, scootering, poster design competitions and environmental learning.
At Castle Primary School in Keynsham, pupils travelled to school by scooter and bike, while children arriving by car were encouraged to walk the final five minutes of their journey.
Pupil Arabella said, “I felt excited to be able to scoot like my friends. I enjoyed the fresh air.”
At The Mendip School in Shepton Mallet, pupils took part in a Clean Air-themed colouring competition, designed posters and helped display bunting and banners around the school. The special school, which supports children and young people aged five to 18, also promoted a ‘No Idling’ message for families during drop-off and pick-up times.
Meanwhile, pupils at St Mary’s Church of England Primary School and Nursery in Writhlington, near Radstock, continued their efforts beyond Clean Air Day. The school has seen increasing numbers of children walking, cycling and scootering to school following the installation of new bike and scooter storage facilities.
The school has also been encouraging pupils to think about caring for the environment through themed collective worship sessions focused on positive action and sustainability.
Clean Air Day is the UK’s largest air pollution campaign and aims to raise awareness of the impact poor air quality can have on health.
The Partnership Trust, which includes 17 schools across Bath and North East Somerset and Somerset, is working to reduce carbon emissions and encourage sustainable choices through its Climate Action Group. Schools across the trust now run pupil-led Eco Groups, have taken part in initiatives such as No Mow May and are introducing projects including solar panels.
Emily Massey, CEO of The Partnership Trust, said, “Clean Air Day provides a valuable opportunity for children across the Trust to understand how the choices we make every day can have a positive impact on both our health and the environment.
“It has been fantastic to see pupils getting involved through active travel, creative activities and learning opportunities that highlight the importance of clean air for everyone. This Trust-wide effort on Clean Air Day highlights not only our commitment to sustainability, but the shared values across our school communities.”
