Teachers from across Devon came together with leading climate experts, education specialists, and environmental advocates for the South West Institute for Teaching (SWIFT) Climate Change, Sustainability and Regeneration Conference, held at the University of Plymouth.
The event brought together representatives from Education South West, a trust overseeing 14 schools across the region, and marked the graduation of SWIFT’s inaugural cohort of primary and secondary initial teacher trainees. It provided a powerful platform for collaboration, innovation, and shared commitment to placing sustainability at the core of education.
Attendees engaged in a full day of interactive workshops and keynote sessions, delivered by respected organisations including the Met Office, Growing Devon Schools, Devon Wildlife Trust, Surfers Against Sewage, and the Ocean Conservation Trust. Topics ranged from outdoor maths and waste education to regenerative teaching strategies and climate policy.
Teachers left the conference not only better equipped with practical tools and insights, but also inspired and energised. The event underscored the growing consensus that environmental education is not an optional extra but essential preparation for the challenges facing future generations.
“The climate crisis demands urgent and informed responses and education is central to that,” said Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West. “This conference was about equipping our teachers with the confidence and capability to embed sustainability meaningfully into everyday learning. I’m proud that so many of our staff were part of such an inspiring day. These teachers are helping shape a more hopeful and informed future.”
Tom Pether, Headteacher at East Allington Primary School, commented:
“It was a great day. What struck me was the positivity from speakers and attendees. All were united in the fact we have to present positive solutions for children, developing their sense of agency and voice in their futures. Trainees and teachers left with a wealth of connections and great ideas to educate and empower. Watch this space.”
The conference also reflected Education South West’s wider mission to promote inclusive, values-led learning. All schools in the trust hold UNICEF Rights Respecting accreditation, recognising their commitment to creating safe, respectful, and inspiring environments where children are empowered to thrive.
Education South West operates nine primary schools, four secondary schools, one all-through school, and a University Technical College, all based in Devon. The trust remains focused on building a culture that both supports and challenges, while working with partners across and beyond its school communities to raise standards and drive innovation.
Source: https://www.themoorlander.co.uk/
