Support for schools

We are keen to support schools in Colchester to reduce their emissions and become greener. 

Clean Air for Colchester

This project is focussed on raising awareness of air pollution and its effects, focussing on simple actions we can all take to make Colchester’s air cleaner. As part of the campaign a free Schools Toolkit has been developed which includes curriculum based lesson ideas, assembly PowerPoint and videos, quizzes and activities to get children from key stages 1,2 and 3 engaged with the subject.

There are resources including outdoor banners, carpark signage, posters, myths and facts postcards and car stickers available free of charge for schools to run their own engine switch off campaigns. Handheld air quality monitors are also available to borrow for using to measure changes in air pollution.
 

Clean air for Colchester

Colchester eCargo bike library

We aim to promote the use of electric cargo (eCargo) bikes, instead of cars and vans for short deliveries and trips. Several eCargo bikes are available to local organisations who wish to trial these for their operations. We are happy to visit schools to show them the eCargo bikes and talk about how they are being used in Colchester.

eCargo bike library

Woodland and Biodiversity Project

Increasing tree planting and enhancing biodiversity through the management of our green spaces is the aims of this project. A range of opportunities are available to schools through this project, including the opportunity to take part in tree planting, get free trees and to support the Council’s rewilding projects.

Woodland and Biodiversity Project

Ranger team

Our ranger team provide educational opportunities for schools at Highwoods Country Park. This can include pond dipping, bug hunting and forest school activities amongst others. Equipment and lesson plans can be provided.

If this sounds of interest, email countryside@colchester.gov.uk .

3PR and Park Safe Schools

Council staff support the 3PR and Parksafe schools initiatives set up by the North Essex Parking Partnership. These initiatives are focussed on safe parking outside of schools at drop off and pick up, alongside promoting more walking and cycling to schools.

Find out more about 3PR and Parksafe schools.

Community engagement wardens

Our community engagement wardens are available to help run litter picks at schools. They can provide litter pickers and bags, as well as take away any litter picked up during the session.

Sustainability team

We have several officers within the sustainability team that could help to advise schools on how to reduce their environmental impact. Specialisms are particularly in promoting active and sustainable modes of travel.

You can contact us by emailing climate.change@colchester.gov.uk. 

Museums at Home

During 2020, the Museums team produced several activities and worksheets for education and entertainment. Several of these had environmental links or encouraged engagement with nature, some of these worksheets and activities may be appropriate for classroom based activities. 

View all activities and worksheets 
 

Contact your local councillor

You can also consider contacting your local councillor(s) for support in any action you might want to take at your school.

Find your local councillor(s)