Green was certainly the theme when pupils from 30 schools came together to suggest ways they could tackle climate change.
More than 60 youngsters descended on Hampton Hill Junior School, in St James’s Avenue, on Tuesday, for the second borough schools’ eco-conference.
The children, aged between seven and 11, met to discuss how to live more sustainable lives in what headteacher Bill Jerman believes is one of the only events of its kind in the country.
He said: “They have been thinking about the issues, ideas and ways we can reduce energy consumption. It’s been a really positive day.
“They have made green pledges, whether it is to use less water or cycle to school, and we are going to try and get them on display in a public place.”
According to Mr Jerman, the vast majority of Richmond’s primary schools took part in the day-long event each one sending two “eco-representatives”.
He said: “The idea is that they come and gain a knowledge base and they go back and share with others.
“I think we are fairly unique nationally on this.”
The day began with a workshop run by Big Foot Theatre Company, which teaches children about the issue of climate change through interactive activities.
One group of children spent time with Richmond Council’s sustainability and recycling officers, learning about environmental issues and playing a game to encourage recycling.
The afternoon saw schools battle it out in a competition to design and build a solar car. On their home turf, Hampton Hill scooped the prize for the fastest machine, while St James’ Catholic Primary School, in Stanley Road, Twickenham, won best design.
The event came less than three weeks after Hampton Hill juniors hosted a conference for co-ordinators and staf from schools in Wandsworth, Kingston and parts of Surrey, to learn about sustainability.
On May 28, 60 delegates listened to pupils from different schools talk about the work they are doing to improve the environment.
Mr Jerman said: “I think because we have got a national role as a leading sustainable school our role is to promote sustainability to anyone who is prepared to listen.
“It’s really exciting the fact it’s getting out there, further and further from Richmond.”
The first borough-wide eco-conference took place last year, and the growing tradition is set to continue in 2011.
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