Climate change and sustainability on the curriculum for Scottish pupils

Schools are to be given more help to teach pupils about important global issues such as climate change and sustainability.

The Learning for Sustainability action plan, announced by the Scottish Government, feeds into its aims to cut carbon emissions to net-zero by 2045 and promote fair-trade policies.

Teachers are being encouraged to take advantage of training opportunities to deliver a sustainable curriculum, backed by £650,000 of Scottish Government grant funding.

The Scottish Government is working with local authorities to increase the amount of green space in school grounds for practical outdoor learning.

Growing food is covered in science and geography, fair trade part of social subjects and global economics as part of the social studies and mathematic syllabus.

Education Secretary John Swinney said: “One of the core aims of Curriculum for Excellence is that Scotland’s young people become responsible citizens operating on a global stage.

“This action plan goes further, placing sustainable learning at the heart of Curriculum for Excellence and empowers teachers and schools with a suite of tools and training to drive sustainable goals.

“By striving for all our learners to receive sustainable learning as part of the curriculum, Scotland is leading the way towards a better world for all.”