Pupils Lead the Way at UN-Style Climate Negotiations and Green Skills Summit  

Last Friday, the Royal Hospital School proudly hosted the Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils’ Schools Green Skills Summit.  As part of our commitment to supporting local communities and environmental education, we welcomed Year 8 and 9 pupils from 10 local schools for a day focused on collaboration, critical thinking, and climate action.  

The morning saw pupils' step into the roles of world leaders, taking part in UN-style climate negotiations based on COP30 Belém, Brazil. Each delegation represented one of sixteen nations, preparing and delivering national statements before engaging in lively discussions to find common ground on key climate priorities. Guided by ICN’s forthcoming COP30 resource, pupils developed their public speaking, teamwork, and diplomacy skills while gaining a deeper understanding of international climate decision-making.  

 

 

In the afternoon, attention turned to climate action closer to home. Pupils asked questions directly to local councillors and business representatives during an engaging Climate Question Time, learning how climate policies are shaped and implemented in Suffolk.   

The day concluded with a vibrant Climate Action and Green Skills Marketplace, where local organisations showcased their initiatives, shared opportunities to develop green skills, and inspired pupils to take action within their own communities.  

 

 

This powerful and interactive summit connected global climate challenges with local opportunities for change -, empowering the next generation of climate leaders to make a difference both here in Suffolk and beyond.