By Cllr Stephen Scoffham
I’ve always believed in the power of young minds in shaping a more sustainable future. I am now delighted to share details of the Schools’ Sustainability Project – a new initiative that I am developing which places our young students at the forefront of environmental stewardship.
What underpins the project is the simple yet profound belief that to secure a sustainable future, we must start with the youngest among us. Their insights, creativity, and passion are invaluable resources in the fight against environmental degradation. This initiative is one way to develop a deep-seated awareness of ecological issues among pupils across the district. As a trial I have started with just three primary schools – Elham C.of E Primary School, Sellindge Primary School, and The Churchill School in Hawkinge. The participating youngsters, aged between 7-10, are not just students; they are the pioneers of tomorrow’s green revolution.
Councillors across the political spectrum are keen to engage with young people on environmental issues. The challenge is to find ways of working with schools which are meaningful and effective. Having worked in teaching throughout my career I have been able to draw on my experience and knowledge of education to devise an approach which I am now in the process of testing in practice.
The recent launch of the project at the Civic Centre in Folkestone in mid-March was nothing short of inspiring. Twenty-three young participants were introduced to the workings of the council chamber by the Chair, Cllr Abena Akuffo-Kelly. This firsthand experience of council proceedings is vital. It demystifies the process of governance and shows these young minds how decisions affecting their environment are made. Moreover, it’s an opportunity for them to envision themselves as future leaders in these very seats.
The heart of the project lies in the practical application of sustainable ideas. In each school, pupils have identified a project that addresses an environmental issue which they think is important. A supporting grant of £300 to £500 is available for any equipment or resources that may be needed. This financial support underscores my commitment to translating ideas into action.
As we move forward, the projects refined by these students will be brought to life in the summer term. This isn’t just about completing a school project; it’s about making real changes in our community. The enthusiasm and ingenuity the pupils have already displayed is remarkable. They’ve considered issues ranging from food production to energy conservation, proposing solutions that could very well lead to significant environmental benefits.
This trial, which crucially enjoys cross party support, is only the beginning. My vision is to expand this initiative, inviting more schools to participate and fostering a district-wide culture of sustainability. By engaging our youth, we are not just preparing them for a future of environmental challenges; we are empowering them to lead the charge in overcoming those challenges.
For those interested in taking part in this journey, I encourage you to reach out. Together, we can nurture a generation of environmental stewards, ready to safeguard our planet for themselves and for future generations.
To get involved or learn more about the Schools’ Sustainability Project, please contact climate@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk.
Councillor Stephen Scoffham is a Green Party councillor in the North Downs East Ward and serves as the cabinet member for Climate, Environment and Biodiversity on Folkestone & Hythe District Council.
Green Party councillor Stephen Scoffham stands beside a GreenSeas Trust bin at Sunny Sands, Folkestone. The Bin aims to help people make the connection between litter left thoughtlessly on beaches or thrown in waterways and the harmful effect this has on marine life and human health. The bins are the result of a collaboration between students at the University of East London and Strathclyde University and are an example of young minds working to provide solutions to the climate and ecological emergency.
