Giving the planet a voice – pupils impress with climate change test

A new generation of persuasive writers excelled in a competition organised at Green Lane Primary and Barnard Castle Preparatory Schools.

A total of 55 youngsters composed essays inspired by climate change and environmental awareness – and the standard was so high that the judging panel needed extra time to reach a verdict.

Jonjo Middleton of Barnard Castle Prep was the overall winner.

His text, entitled When the Earth Spoke to Me, stood out for its creative approach in giving the planet a voice.

Ezra Harding of Green Lane was overall runner-up.

“I worked quite hard on this project, and I enjoyed doing it,” he said.

There were special commendations for Eleanor Hughes (Green Lane) and William Gilson (Barnard Castle).

The four winners received book tokens, a copy of Sir David Attenborough: A Life Story, a packet of wildflower seeds and a certificate.

And the judges were impressed with the standard of all the entries from both schools.

“Judging the children’s essays was a real privilege,” said Jo Middleton from Utass.

“I was impressed by the standard and encouraged by the passion and enthusiasm they showed in what they wrote.

“Their creativity was inspiring.”

Rob Goffee, headteacher at Green Lane, said: “We’ve really enjoyed taking part in it, and the children got a lot out of it.

“We had fun, but it was also educational.

“This is something very close to the children’s hearts because they are the generation that will be dealing with climate change.”

And at Barnard Castle Prep, Amanda Chaloner added: “It’s been absolutely brilliant.

“For a school like ours, where a lot of our families are farmers and struggle with climate change in their professions, we thought it was really important that this message got out.”

The competition was organised by Colin Dunnighan, a member of the Rotary Club of Teesdale and District Eco.

“Rotary is committed to supporting initiatives that encourage behaviour which protects the environment,” he said.

“Young people are increasingly aware of the need to tackle environmental issues, and the competition gave them the opportunity to explore climate change and show their understanding through their writing.

“Thanks to all the pupils and to the staff at Barnard Castle Prep School and Green Lane Church of England Primary School – and also to our thoughtful judges – without whom the competition would not have been possible.”