County Council calls for the Government to make climate science an integral part of the National Curriculum

Once again West Sussex County Council has taken further action around the subject of climate change as a result of a constructive debate with students on ‘YouthStrike4Climate’ day last month.

Leader Louise Goldsmith has written to Schools Minister Nick Gibb after meeting pupils to discuss environmental issues.

Louise Goldsmith, Leader of the County Council, met with students on the steps of County Hall, Chichester to listen to their concerns and ideas.

One request from students was for West Sussex County Council to ask the Government to put the subject of climate change on the National Curriculum. In response to this, Louise Goldsmith has this week written to Nick Gibb MP, Minister of State for School Standards, asking him to consider the formal introduction of climate science as an integral component of the National Curriculum.

Louise Goldsmith said: “It was such a pleasure and privilege discussing climate issues with young people who really care and are worried about the future of our planet and the legacy that we will leave for future generations.

“I share the belief that strengthening the teaching of climate change and climate science should include not only the serious and existential challenge that the country and world faces but also what we can do, collectively and as individuals to help reverse the impact on our environment.”

Students meeting Louise Goldsmith at County Hall. Photo Credit @2019EmilyMott

Louise Goldsmith wrote to Mr Gibb on the day the County Council launched a major new campaign asking West Sussex residents to pledge to making small but positive changes to their everyday lives. The ‘West Sussex Climate Pledge’ has seen an encouraging start and can be viewed here: www.westsussex.gov.uk/maketheclimatepledge

Other matters discussed with students included food packaging, cycle lanes, recycling bins, solar energy and emissions from factories.

West Sussex County Council officers and Louise Goldsmith plan to meet representatives from the student group again later this summer to feedback on the Government’s response and to continue this important debate.

Students meeting Louise Goldsmith at County Hall. Photo Credit @2019EmilyMott

You are able to keep up to date with our articles, news and publications by following us on our social media channels below: