Youth Eco Leaders programme launches in Moorlands

Published on 23 March 2023

Schools, colleges and youth groups across the Moorlands are being invited to take part in a new education project to equip young people with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle climate change and deliver their own environmental projects.

Staffordshire Moorlands District Council has partnered with Staffordshire Council of Voluntary Youth Services (SCVYS) to deliver the Youth Eco Leaders programme to inform people aged 11-18 about the environment, climate change and sustainability.

The comprehensive education programme will include carbon literacy training, a climate debate in the Council chamber at Moorlands House, and support for young people to take action via their own eco projects.

The aim of the project is to equip participants with the knowledge and confidence to talk about environmental issues and provide them with the skills to engage in meaningful discussions about climate change and sustainability.

David Smith, Head of Communities and Climate Change at the Council, said: "How we manage our changing climate is one of our biggest challenges so programmes like this, which put young people at the heart of issues affecting their future, are so important.

"We're delighted to be launching this initiative, which is free to participants, in the Moorlands and look forward to welcoming young people onto the programme. Places are limited so please do get in touch if you're interested in taking part!"

The project, which includes partners Globe Foundation, Moorlands Climate Action, and other local organisations, will launch soon when environmental experts from Globe Foundation will deliver the first education sessions.

Sean Turner, Youth Engagement Co-ordinator for SCVYS, said: "We are thrilled to be partnering with the Council to support young people in the Staffordshire Moorlands with such an important project.

"By providing young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in meaningful discussions around climate change and sustainability, we are empowering them to take an active role in shaping the future of our planet."

Participants will receive a certificate on completion of the programme to add to their CVs or university application statements.

There's more information on our website www.staffsmoorlands.gov.uk/Youth-Eco-Leaders-Programme

Schools, colleges and groups who want to take part are asked to email sean@staffscvys.org.uk to book their place.