Pupils are switched on at school energy efficiency event!

Youngsters at a Telford primary school took part in hands-on energy efficiency activities to learn how they can play their part in protecting the planet.

Telford & Wrekin Council, in partnership with Marches Energy Agency, hosted the session at John Fletcher of Madeley Primary School which helped pupils to understand more about saving energy and reducing their carbon footprints, including how to choose energy efficient appliances.

As well as calculating their carbon footprints, Years 5 and 6 designed the front page of a newspaper which focused on the impact of energy saving on the environment. A series of books and resources about energy efficiency have been donated to the school. The activities were co-ordinated by Mandy Findlay, Affordable Warmth Project Officer at Telford & Wrekin Council with Abi Carr and Jodie Barrett from Marches Energy Agency.

Councillor Richard Overton (Lab), Telford & Wrekin Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing, Enforcement and Transport, said: “Improving energy efficiency is extremely important for households across the borough and can help to lower utility bills, create jobs and stabilise gas and electricity prices. This was a wonderful opportunity to attend a local school and deliver an event for pupils focusing on what they can do to become more energy efficient which can have a long-lasting positive impact.”

Councillor Carolyn Healy (Lab), Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet  Member for Climate Change, Green Spaces, Natural and Historic Environment and  Cultural Services said: “Increased energy efficiency can lower greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants and improve health. It’s excellent to see local pupils engaging in activities which highlight energy choices and how the decisions we make can have a positive impact on the environment for future generations.”

Telford & Wrekin Council is giving a helping hand to residents who are concerned over a huge hike in fuel bills this winter. The council is working with Marches Energy Agency to deliver practical solutions to reduce fuel poverty and cold homes. Support measures include financial assistance through top-ups to existing energy grants and helping households to save money through a range of energy efficiency measures.

Stacey Cross, Head teacger at the John Fletcher of Madeley Primary, said: “As a school, part of our vision is to encourage the children to take part in ‘courageous advocacy’ and ‘social action’, whereby the children come together to tackle an issue that’s important to them. Our children want to make a difference. This project has been perfect for our children to take part in and is something so important that will have a direct impact on our local community. Children were so inspired that parents have reported that they are already making changes in their homes.”

Parent Mrs Pemberton added: “We immediately noticed the impact of this session. Conversations at home as a consequence of this presentation have suggested we turn the heating down and wear jumpers and asking whether we really need the lights on and switching these off.”

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