BHS & Francis Patton Win Climate Action Grant
Bermuda High School and Francis Patton Primary School have each received $5,000 from the Butterfield X Protect Our Future Climate Action Grant to implement innovative environmental projects.
A spokesperson said, “Butterfield and the 1851 Trust, purpose Partner of the Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team, are delighted to announce the winners of the Butterfield X Protect Our Future Climate Action Grant. Bermuda High School [BHS] and Francis Patton Primary School have been selected as the recipients of the grant, each receiving $5,000 to implement innovative environmental projects.
“The Climate Action Grant was launched in partnership with Protect Our Future, a climate education programme of the 1851 Trust an educational charity that provides free sport-inspired STEM and climate education programmes globally. Supported by Protect Our Future’s climate resources , the climate action grant aimed to empower and equip young people with the knowledge to speak confidently about climate change and drive positive action with their communities.
“BHS will use the grant to establish a hydroponics farming area, with plans to expand into aquaponics. The project aims to grow produce such as lettuce, spinach, and carrots, supported by a sustainable ecosystem where goldfish provide nutrients. It will offer hands-on, cross-curricular learning opportunities in science, math, geography, economics, art, and design. The project is aligned with BHS’s Eco Schools Green Flag status and promotes an innovative STEAM-based solution to climate challenges, while addressing several UN Sustainable Development Goals.
“Francis Patton School’s Green Future Initiative engages students, staff, and the community in sustainable practices to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental stewardship. This multifaceted project includes activities focused on reducing plastic use, alternative transportation, community clean-ups, energy conservation and a school and community garden featuring a hands-on learning experience fostering healthy eating, crop cultivation, and sustainability practices. Their initiative fosters environmental responsibility, reduces waste, and aligns with Francis Patton’s long-term goal of creating a sustainable future.”
To celebrate their achievements, Butterfield hosted a special event, bringing together the students, educators, and representatives of the initiative.
A Butterfield spokesperson said: “We congratulate the students and teachers at BHS and the Francis Patton Primary School on their winning submissions. The judging panel had a difficult task with strong competition from other entrants. It was great to see the ideas and the engagement following the education and outreach programmes run by the Emirates GBR Sail Team, together with the 1851 Trust, during the SailGP event in May. We thank everyone who participated, and look forward to following the progress of the selected environmental projects.”
A spokesperson added, “The 1851 Trust’s climate education programme, Protect Our Future use the inspiration of athletes and the global community of sport to empower young people with the knowledge to take climate action and drive behaviour change.”
Sir Ben Ainslie, CEO Emirates GBR SailGP Team & Patron of The 1851 Trust, said: “The Butterfield X Protect Our Future Climate Action Grant reflects our shared commitment to empowering young people to tackle global challenges. By equipping them with the tools and resources they need, we can help foster the next generation of climate leaders. We were impressed with all the applicants and thank the schools for their hard work. We are excited to see the winning projects develop and their legacy within the local community in Bermuda.”
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Category: All, Environment, News
One thing is certain. It would appear that no other schools exist in the public realm. Is no other school in the public sphere that might be considered for these awards? Just seems like all accolades fall upon Francis Patton. I guess you have to promote what you’ve invested in at the expense of the other schools.