Empowering Teachers for Climate Action

Sustainable Schools Team Empowering Teachers to Lead Climate Change Learning.

The Sustainable Schools team recently hosted a professional development day focusing on the Climate Change Learning Programme: Huringa Āhuarangi: whakareri mai kia haumaru āpōpō - Climate Change: prepare today, live well tomorrow.

Teachers from across Tāmaki Makaurau gathered at the Fickling Centre to explore the resources and learn more about teaching climate change with Sian Carvell of Future Curious, who developed the programme.

The day provided a chance for teachers to connect and network with colleagues, Sustainable Schools advisors, and a range of external agencies. Teachers were able to delve into the eight modules of the programme covering a range of topics including: understanding climate change, the role of both science and indigenous knowledge systems, planning for action, mitigating climate impacts and taking action.

The Climate Change Learning Programme provides a fully resourced set of modules, slides and learning activities. Enabling teachers to get started on climate change learning and encourage their ākonga to feel empowered to make change in their communities. The programme has a strong focus on wellbeing and inspiring student led action. Sian provided insights into learner voice, with young people telling us they want to talk about climate change. They want to feel educated, supported, hopeful and empowered to make a real difference.

Access to the Climate Change Learning Programme is free for teachers: register using this form. To read about one teacher’s experience using the programme, read this article: Climate Education: A Teacher's Perspective. The Sustainable Schools Team will be providing further support as teachers in Auckland begin to teach the programme in their schools. If you would like to find out more, contact your Sustainable Schools Advisor, or email Sustainable Schools sustainableschools@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.