Environmental Education Resources

The website Environmental Education Virtual Field Trips for Nature Lovers has a number of excellent virtual field trips, for example The United States Botanic Garden virtual tour; the Gardens of Versailles; a Living Work of Art and the Foundation De Monet (Thanks Cassie, from AL in US, for that website recommendation!).

Now, whilst we would all rather visit the places in person, for most of use that's not going to happen any time soon. So the next best thing is a virtual field trip. So, why are virtual field trips so awesome? First off, they are all about making educational experiences accessible to everyone. No matter where you are, how much money you've got, or any physical limitations you might have, virtual field trips bring the world to your fingertips. It's like going on an adventure without even leaving your seat!

And they're affordable. You don't have to worry about shelling out cash for transportation, accommodation, or entrance fees. That means more schools and students can get in on the action without breaking the bank.

Flexibility is another big perk. You can hop on a virtual field trip whenever it works for you. No need to worry about schedules or conflicting activities. It's all about convenience. Plus, virtual trips aren't bound by geography, so you can explore different locations around the world without leaving your classroom or living room.

Virtual field trips are like an interactive wonderland. They're packed with amazing videos, 360-degree images, and even augmented reality. You can immerse yourself in these virtual environments, move things around, and really get a feel for the subject you're learning about. It's like being right there, but without any of the jet lag!

So there you have it, the lowdown on virtual field trips. They're accessible, affordable,  and engaging. It's like going on an educational adventure without even leaving your seat. So buckle up and get ready to explore the world, one virtual trip at a time!

Stem Learning has an excellent range of practical and hands-on learning activities covering all sorts of climate change related themes.

Check out this multi-lesson guide on Extreme Elements or this one on Future World where children can create wearable technology with lights and LEDs.

That's surely going to get your STEM club pumping!

Ade's honest and sensitive approach when talking with people impacted by climate change is both informative and uplifting.

Although the scenes are dramatic, Ade focuses on what can be done to make the future better. Ade's documentaries provide excellent opportunities for discussion for older children.

This WWF video gives a clear explanation of the causes and challenges of climate change, as well as outlining some steps towards solutions such as a global network of no-fish zones, a treaty on the use of international waters, rewilding, efficient food production, phasing out fossil fuels, reducing our consumption of meat, reducing deforestation. 

Check out WWF's Go Wild educational resources which focus on supporting wildlife. How about adopting a polar bear and monitoring the impact of WWF's strategies to save its habitat?

Get the children's creative juices flowing with this short video. '22 Inventions that are saving the world' is a great discussion starter. With inventions such as edible water pods and edible spoons it will really get the children thinking and talking. Some inventions are actually created by students themselves! An uplifting and informative watch! Could your childere invent number 23?

Mark Rober, an American engineer and inventor, attempted to extract 30 million pounds of rubbish out of one river all by himself.

But the challenge was on as he completed with the a bunch of volunteers who were trying to collect 30million pounds of rubbish from the beach. Who do you think won? Oh I forgot to mention - Mark was helped by a friend - a 50 ton trash-eating robot! Lay your bets now folks.

To find out more about how Mark Rober developed his ideas since childhood watch this video.

NOAA' Oceanic activity book will captivate children's imaginations with activities such as creating a solar cooker, creating a temperature sensor and more. Suitable for older children (upper primary or secondary).

The Climate in our hands Ocean and Cyrosphere Teacher guidance booklet has thorough explanations and guidance on how to teach topics for primary and secondary. Lots of detail and specific learning activities. 

The book Brilliant Deep is a great book for primary KS2 (7-12 children). It's about a man who explains how he became fascinated by the ocean coral reefs and at one point had over 30 aquariums in his bedroom as a child. When he grows up he experiments with growing coral (well rather the things that grow on the rocks). He then uses his knowledge to regenerate actual coral reefs. An inspiring story which gives hope for some of the dying reefs today.

Somebody swallowed Stanley is an excellent book for explaining pollution. Stanley the 100 year old fish tells of his experience with pollution, enabling the children to really get inside the issue.

Lob is about Lucy, who catches a glimpse of the mysterious and elusive green man who lives on Grandpa's land. Gradually she gets to know him. Lob is a beautiful story which evokes empathy and a love of nature and is ideal for 7-9 year olds. A mystical tale which deals with the nature of belief. 

For more recommended books click here.

Climate Central's 'Picturing Our Future' sliding tool shows the stark reality of what a range of cities may look like it we don't keep on track with cutting CO2 emissions. Good discussion points, if a bit scary.

The DfE has announced that every education setting will have a Sustainability Lead by 2025. These leaders will have carbon literacy training and will develop climate action plans. As 2025 is a fair way off we can expect more detail on this closer to the time.

The UN document Education is key to addressing Climate Change is key reading outlining the work done on achieving the sustainable development goals.