KS3 Climate Change Summit Inspires Young Environmental Leaders

Sustainability Conference in Hitchin inspires our pupils to take action in the fight against climate change

On 4th July 2025, a group of our KS3 students attended the inspiring Climate Change Summit at North Herts College, Hitchin run by the Hertfordshire Science Hub. The day was packed with thought-provoking discussions and hands-on activities, empowering students to take action in the fight against climate change.

The keynote speaker, Jo Heneker, set the tone for the day with a powerful message: even the smallest changes in our everyday lives can help save the planet. Her talk encouraged students to think critically about their own habits and how they could reduce their carbon footprint, whether through food choices, travel, or energy use.

Following the keynote, students took part in two engaging workshops. Chris from Hertfordshire Zoo led a session exploring the impact of climate change on wildlife and ecosystems, highlighting the urgent need for conservation. Meanwhile, Jeremy from Let’s Go Zero ran an interactive workshop that challenged students to help make suggestions to take back to school on how we at Bishop’s Hatfield Girls’ School can work towards reducing our carbon footprint.

In the afternoon, students explored an exciting exhibition, where they visited a range of stalls run by environmental organisations. Armed with a questionnaire, they had to search for answers by engaging with exhibitors and learning about climate solutions. Those who successfully completed the quiz were entered into a prize draw, with winners receiving delicious Tony’s Fairtrade chocolate as a reward for their efforts.

Our students returned buzzing with ideas and motivation, ready to become climate champions in their own communities. Students from 8 Austen prepared a presentation to share with their peers to make them aware of the importance of being more sustainable and working together to make a difference in school!