Pupils at Lathallan School have sent a powerful message to world leaders at COP26, urging them to ‘ACT NOW’. 80 senior pupils created this striking, large scale message by standing together and using their mobile phones for illumination which was captured by one of their S6 pupils flying a drone high above Brotherton Castle.
Commenting on the message to world leaders, Richard Toley, headmaster at Lathallan School said: “Lathallan is a school of the environment. Learners are nurtured by nature and as a result, they work hard to look after and maintain the ecosystems around our school grounds and beyond. This message, created by students, aims to amplify the message that we must act now, the decision-makers must deliver on climate change for those who will be most impacted – the next generation. There is no time to spare.”
Zoe Jordan, head of science at Lathallan added: “Our pupils spend a large proportion of their day outside and are immersed in the outdoor environment and nature. Often pupils have a favourite tree on the grounds or a favourite spot for watching birds and other wildlife. This develops a passion in pupils to care for their immediate environment. Coupled with educating pupils on the importance of protecting our planet, by the time pupils are entering the senior school, students show a lot of respect for the outdoor space, and great enthusiasm to be involved in the eco club and environmental initiatives.”
When pupils were asked about their views on climate change and what inspired them to create this message for world leaders, Julia (S6) said: “I got involved in our school eco group partly due to my love for nature and wildlife. As I've progressed up the school and the reality of climate change has become more vivid, I am trying to live more sustainably in order to protect these things.”
“I’m inspired by a lot of teen activists, such as Greta Thunberg or Autumn Peltier, as they have dedicated themselves entirely to living sustainably. This also extends to their ability to capture the attention of people that can make a big difference – as well as promoting a more sustainable lifestyle for those who may think their decisions are unimportant in the grand scheme of things.”
Tigerlily (S2) was recently selected to participate in the Young Scot Climate Co-design Group, made up of young people from across Scotland. She said: “It isn’t a question of inspiration, it is a question of obligation. If we are going to change the planet everyone has to take part. It's a necessity.”
Last month, Lathallan School was the proud recipient of the national ‘Small Independent School of the Year’ award at the Independent School of the Year Awards 2021 with judges noting their commitment to environmental education.