Insights | Teaching the importance of sustainability in year 5

The Lower Prep humanities curriculum helps pupils to develop a deep, secure understanding of a range of important topics. Through learning, puples in Shanghai international school develop their vocabulary and ability to articulate and build on their understanding over time.

But, at Wellington, we are confident that our pupils are capable of much more than simply articulating their understanding. We believe that for a humanities curriculum to be truly successful, it must empower students to not only understand but to utilize their growing knowledge. Pupils must realise that what they are learning is important and has real-world significance. 

During the year 5 topic ‘Black Gold’ we have planned a range of experiences to open the children’s eyes to the relevance of what they are learning. 

First, we welcomed a visitor from Jaguar Land Rover, who spoke to our pupils about the sustainability of electric cars and why their company are making developments in this area. 

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Following this, all year 5 pupils participated in a debate in which groups of children representing one of four countries defended and promoted their country’s progress since the signing of the Paris Climate Agreement. 

Finally, inspired by young climate activist Greta Thunberg, the pupils delivered speeches about what they have learned about sustainability, what it makes them think and feel and what responsibilities they believe they have as citizens. One pupil from each class was selected based on their speech to attend a meeting with Ms Prescott and Mrs Qiao. There, they had the chance to present a collective speech and engage in a lively discussion.

By facilitating these opportunities, we hope that our pupils will increase their knowledge of the world around them, make connections, engage in meaningful discussion and see the real-life relevance of their learning.