Hundreds of pupils from Peterborough schools unite to mark Earth Day

More than 100 pupils from schools across the city enjoyed a fun-filled day of hands-on environmental learning as part of the special occasion.

First held in 1970, Earth Day is a global event celebrated annually to demonstrate support for environmental protection. It is thought that more than a billion people in nearly 200 countries come together each year to participate in eco-friendly activities like cleaning, planting trees, and advocacy.

A total of 105 primary school pupils massed to take part in interactive workshops hosted by Peterborough City Council environmental officers and partners at the Green Backyard.

Pupils were split into teams for activities focused on sustainability, reducing waste, biodiversity, reuse and protecting local wildlife, with children learning through games, discussions and creative, hands‑on experiences.

This was followed by an afternoon summit at the council’s head offices at Sand Martin House where the youngsters had the opportunity to share their ideas and put questions to a panel of local leaders and environmental speakers on issues like climate action, sustainability, and how communities and councils can work together to protect the environment.

Charlotte Palmer, Peterborough City Council’s Service Director for Environment and Climate Change, thanked all of the schools and partners who contributed to the day for “for inspiring the next generation to care for the planet.”

She added: “The workshops and summit were fantastic occasions which our officers thoroughly enjoyed and we had lots of positive feedback from the pupils who took part.”

The schools that took part were: Hampton Lakes Primary, St Augustine’s, St Botolphs, All Saints, Highlees, Eyrescroft, West Town, Barnack School, Wittering School and Lime Academy Watergall took part in the Earth Day event.