changemaking in primary schools
ECO Pioneers
Eco Pioneers is a green changemaking programme aimed at students in upper primary (Key Stage 2). It was piloted in 3 schools in Sussex in 2023 with over 200 Year 6 pupils preparing to transition to secondary school. In 2024 it expanded to Years 4-6 across 12 schools, 7 in Sussex and 5 in Halton in partnership with EcoVida Routes.
The programme can be delivered as part of a Key Stage 2 Geography topic with a focus on climate change and sustainability within the local area. Students then continue a project based learning journey by working in teams and using design thinking to develop solutions to sustainability issues that they have identified in their local communities. Students develop transferable skills, as demonstrated through Skills Builder accreditation. They also develop their understanding of citizenship. The programme culminates in a presentation of ideas to local decision makers, including councillors, community groups, school leadership and parents.
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Primary Pioneers
Primary Pioneers is a social innovation programme aimed at students in upper primary. Using the UN SDGs as a starting point the programme is designed to help pupils build transferable skills, agency, and citizenship, using design thinking to engage young people in identifying and developing solutions to issues they identify and care about within their local communities. The programme culminates in a presentation of ideas to local decision makers, including councillors, community groups, school leadership and parents. The Primary Pioneers programme builds transferable skills, whilst creating positive social impact and inspiring the next generation of social innovators.