Cullingworth village staged its first-ever eco summit on Tuesday 12th March. The event took place at Cullingworth Village Hall and was attended by a range of people from the Cullingworth community including the secondary school, members of the Parish council and local Vicar.
Inspiration for the summit came from Cullingworth Village Primary School’s eco council, who led the event. Funding for the event was provided by Morley Glass.
There was a pre-recorded welcome from BBC Look North weather presenter Paul Hudson. Paul then answered the children’s questions about climate change. A range of organisations showcased their work and activities. Demonstrations included information from the River trust, tree identification and how to make a Morse bag.
Other ECO Councils from the neighbouring schools, East Morton C of E Primary School and Oxenhope C of E Primary school also attended.
Mrs Elena O’Hare, a teacher at Cullingworth Village Primary School, said:
“I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the knowledge and passion that our pupils have demonstrated for improving the world we live in. We have completed some fantastic projects within the school, which have helped us achieve ECO School Green Flag status. This event aimed to inspire residents of all ages to work together to help co-ordinate Cullingworth’s response to the climate emergency and bring together organisations that want to play their part.”
Mrs Isaac, Headteacher said:
“I am really proud of the children’s commitment and interest in raising these important issues.”
At the end of the summit everyone was asked to make a pledge to do something good. Pledges included: to stop using plastic bags and recycling more and hanging washing out instead of using a tumble dry. Pupil and ECO councillor Joshua pledged to switch lights off to reduce energy.
Carol Dewhurst OBE, Chief Executive Officer at Bradford Diocesan Academies Trust added:
“What a brilliant event! It was really great to see the commitment and passion of the Cullingworth community to make meaningful environmental changes and I was particularly proud to see our Cullingworth Village Primary School students leading the way”.