Local education initiative launches to inspire future generation on renewables
Primary school children living in communities surrounding the Pen Y Cymoedd Wind Farm will soon have the opportunity to have fun learning all about energy and climate change, following the launch of a local community education initiative.
A series of bilingual interactive films have been created as part of a collaboration between the Pen y Cymoedd Wind Farm Community Interest Company (CIC) and wind farm operator Vattenfall, working with Wales-based community education specialist Ynni Da.
As Wales prepares to attend the COP26 UN Climate Change conference in November, the aim of the project is to increase awareness about the neighbouring wind farm and renewables, as well as help to increase the next generation’s understanding of energy and climate change.
Education packs have been provided to participating primary schools across the Neath, Afan, Rhondda and Cynon Valleys, featuring a mix of digital and physical tools. This includes interactive videos about energy and climate change, as well as activities that can be done in the classroom such as creating miniature wind turbines and solar panels.
One of the schools participating is Cwmnedd Primary School in Glynneath. Headteacher, Sarah Harwood said: “This opportunity is an exciting step for our pupils, and with Pen y Cymoedd Wind Farm as a visible example of renewable energy in their local area, our children can link what they learn in the classroom to what they can see on their doorsteps.”
Jeremy Miles, MS for Neath, who supports the project said, “I am proud that here in Wales, climate change and the environment is at the heart of the Welsh Government’s decision making. In a world that is being increasingly shaped by climate change, it is vital that children and young people not only learn about its impact but are also equipped with knowledge for the green jobs of the future. Community initiatives like this are a fantastic opportunity for pupils to see renewable energy and the benefits that it brings, in action, close to home.”
Vattenfall is committed to supporting the local community through a range of initiatives, and the Pen y Cymoedd Wind Farm CIC, set up to support local initiatives at a grassroots level, has allocated over £6.9 million of funding since its inception in 2017. Examples of projects include Hot Jam and Hop Jam, creative music projects helping people express themselves through song writing, recording and performance.
Pat Delaney, Site Manager, at Pen Y Cymoedd said: “We were delighted to team up with Ynni Da to produce online Climate and Energy sessions for schools. It’s important that we work with young people to engage the next generation in planning for a net zero future and understand the role that projects like their local wind farm – Pen y Cymoedd – play in helping us tackle climate change.”