Fairtrade gives teachers a great opportunity to explore with learners many issues that face our global society: where our food comes from, supply chains, fairness vs unfairness, interconnectedness, the power of the individual, ethical business and sustainable development. When schools in the UK focus on Fairtrade, they show solidarity with children in poorer countries and this connection brings them together in a powerful global movement for change. We are asking schools to be part of this movement of change, to learn about Fairtrade, to support it and promote it. To support schools, we offer a wide range of free resources and three Fairtrade School Awards, which give lots of opportunities to develop learners' knowledge and understanding of global issues, as well as explore and critically evaluate Fairtrade. The Fairtrade School Awards aren't just about teaching about a single issue - they aim to allow learners to examine what fairness means, as well as how they can be involved in changing the world around them, promoting active citizenship as they understand the impact they have as citizens and young consumers. The Fairtrade School Awards are supported by The Co-op.
Bridge Integrated Primary School enjoyed their 'Educating for a Fair & Sustainable World' Intermediate Course with 'Eco-Schools: A Global Dimension' and 'Communication & Literacy Through a Global Learning Lens' as their two thematic workshops. Here's what they had to say about us:
"The trainer's delivery and content included in her presentation and interactive activities were very well received by the staff in attendance: Principal, VP, WAU Coordinators, Literacy Coordinator, Inclusion & Diversity and GL Coordinators, and Shared Education partner. They are all looking forward to availing of more great training in the future".
Tanya Davis - Bridge Integrated Primary School
Staff from Holy Evangelists' Primary School in Belfast chose 'Promoting Mutual Understanding through Inquiry and Mapping' and 'Global Learning through the World Around Us' as their two thematic workshops.
"The training was very informative and thought-provoking, and gave good ideas to use in the classroom and school as well as how to become involved in the local community. We came away with lots of useful activities and practical suggestions about how we can link global learning to our topics and planners. We loved working with the trainer - she was so approachable; and we are looking forward to our next session in January".
Paula McWilliams - Holy Evangelists' Primary School
Ten teachers from Kilkeel High School benefitted from free in-school CPD on Introduction to Global Learning and Introduction to Facilitating Pupil-Action Projects, Autumn 2019.
"The trainer did a fantastic job and the feedback from staff was very positive. As Principal, I was delighted that the material shared was applicable to so many subject areas". Victor Coert, Principal.
"This training really got me thinking abut the true impact of the products that we use everyday. I will teach my design processes differently. Most enjoyable training session this year!" Alan Crutchey, Head of Design & Technology.
Victor Coert - Kilkeel High School
In St Louise’s College our students are very interested and enthusiastic about gaining a deeper understanding of the world around them. They are becoming increasingly aware of complex issues on a global scale. Being involved with the programme has provided us as a school with additional resources and through excellent CPD opportunities has allowed me to work with colleagues from other sectors and regions. I look forward to developing some project ideas in the near future as a direct result of recent training events. I wholeheartedly recommend getting involved with this excellent team.
Brenda Kelly - St Louise's Comprehensive College
The programme is a fantastic way to drive schools on in their efforts to help achieve the fair and sustainable world we all want. It focuses on young people, and ourselves as individuals, to be the steering group in initiating a change in attitude and sparking the motivation needed to take action. Lots of support is available from the programme facilitators and other leaders with a brilliant variety of resources at our fingertips. I am excited about getting the whole school and community engaged in global learning and feel it is important that all generations should have an awareness of the fragile nature of our planet.
Nadine Gallagher - Shimna Integrated College
The programme providies teachers with lesson ideas and how to embed global learning across our school curriculum, both primary and secondary. I am very appreciative of this opportunity to learn from such an inspirational team. I highly recommend that all schools should participate and develop the tools necessary to teach our children about global issues.
Olivia Smith - Lismore Comprehensive