Inspectors underline schools’ success in raising children’s environmental awareness

Local schools are playing a major role in helping children become more environmentally aware.

That is the view of the Chief Inspector of the Education and Training Inspectorate, Stanley Goudie, following the findings of a report on education for sustainable development in schools.

Over 80 primary, post-primary and special schools were involved in the evaluation, which has highlighted the key role that educating children about the environment, plays in the local curriculum.

Commenting on the report, Mr Goudie said: "As has become apparent in recent years, the need to be aware of how our actions and lifestyles impact on the environment has never been greater. In virtually all aspects of daily life we are contributing to the causes of climate change through the use of energy and resources, but equally there are many opportunities to reduce the damage being done.

"We have found that schools in all sectors here are nurturing a strong culture of environmental consideration amongst our children. This is not only helping them contribute to energy and resource conservation, but is also assisting children in other ways by developing their literacy, numeracy and ICT skills through the use of real life examples that they can relate to.

"Schools are using a diverse range of innovative methods to teach pupils about the environment. Some have installed wind turbines and other renewable energy technologies to highlight how we do not have to rely totally on fossil fuels. Indeed this has delivered reductions in energy usage which in turn have generated real financial savings for our schools.

"Many schools are encouraging children to grow their own fruit and vegetables and care for wildlife to demonstrate where food comes from and how human beings form an integral part of nature. Such activities are encouraging children to have considerate and constructive attitudes towards the environment which they will hopefully carry through into adulthood."

Mr Goudie added: "Whilst it is clear that local schools are performing well in educating children about the environment, there remain some areas for improvement. The report sets out several key recommendations which could help schools deliver this important aspect of education even better.

"For example, there are opportunities to ensure that all school staff, both teaching and non-teaching, fully embrace environmental education. Education and Library Boards could also better support schools by providing even greater access to the information, guidance and resources which are currently available."

Notes to editors:

1. The report of the evaluation on Effective Practice in Education for Sustainable Development is available on the Education and Training Inspectorate website.
2. Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9207.