Holme Grange School’s Mock COP29: Empowering Future Leaders for Climate Action
Holme Grange School’s 4th MockCOP29 engaged students from 7 local schools in debates, workshops and hands-on activities, empowering them to tackle global climate challenges. The event fostered future leaders committed to to driving sustainability.
On 15th November 2024, Holme Grange hosted its 4th Mock COP, bringing climate education to life with hands-on experiences and global negotiation simulations. Building on past successes, the event continues to embed sustainability into the school's DNA, empowering students to tackle pressing climate issues with ambition and responsibility.
'As part of Mock COP29, we focused on learning to understand what is happening across the world and how climate change is affecting others,' said Leanne Hughes, organiser and Sustainability Lead at Holme Grange School. '
We mirrored the actual COP29 in Baku as closely as we could by setting up a conference room in our Caudwell Hall.'
As world leaders meet at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, Holme Grange’s Mock COP offered students their own version of this summit. Delegates explored global challenges while inspiring local action.
The event featured Global Negotiations, with sessions on Enhancing Ambition, Actions and Resolutions, a Climate Action Fayre, Question Time and reflections. Facilitators from the InterClimate Network and Professor Chris Merchant, a specialist in Ocean and Earth Observation at the University of Reading, guided students with creativity and collaboration.
While senior students led negotiations, the rest of Holme Grange—from EYFS to Year 11—immersed themselves in workshops exploring themes from the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The school was also grateful for the support of local businesses and organisations, including Maya’s Refillables, Repair Café, What on Earth, Thomas Franks, Mini Nature Artists and the University College of Estate Management, whose practical expertise enriched the day.
During the hands-on workshops, students had the opportunity to build bird boxes from donated materials, create bio-cars using compostable polystyrene, and join foraging trails led by Mini Nature Artists to construct homes for forest animals of their choice.
At Holme Grange, we remain committed to fostering courage, commitment, and aspiration in our pupils, empowering them to lead with integrity and make a meaningful impact. Mock COP29 was not only an opportunity to educate students about climate challenges but also a chance to equip them with the tools to take actionable steps for a better future.
This year’s Mock COP reinforced that meaningful change begins with education and collective action. By embedding sustainability into the heart of our school, Holme Grange is nurturing the next generation of climate leaders—young individuals ready to turn global challenges into local opportunities and drive a sustainable future.
November 2024