Creative Climate Action (STEAM)

I planned, created and facilitated an Arts based STEAM Climate Action Programme for Primary Schools in collaboartion with Clare Education Centre and Dr Alice D Arcy of STEAM Ed Irl.

Client

Department of Education and The Arts Council

Date

Location

School in Munster

Creative Climate Action Programme for Schools (CAPS)

CAPS (Climate Action Programme for Primary Schools) is an initiative designed to empower students to engage meaningfully in climate action and environmental education using the arts as the launchpad for learning. Founded by Evelyn Sorohan, Dr. Alice D’Arcy, and the Clare Education Centre, the programme focuses on fostering awareness, creativity, and collaboration among young learners. The development of the programme was funded by The Public Innovation Fund. It was facilitated by Evelyn Sorohan at the pilot phase in six schools. It was a resounding success. Dr Alice D Arcy's team evaluated the programme. Videos of the children engaged in the CAPS experiential learning process and the evaluation can be viewed below. The programme has undergone several iterations.

Buildings of the future off Iceland's coast, created by a participant in the Climate Action Programme

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I have facilitated the 6 week programme in 20 schools in Clare and Limerick to date. Recently, I adapted it for community use. With the support of Creative Clare, I have had the opportunity to run elements of the programme for three community groups: Ennis Tidy Towns, The Men’s Shed, and the Ennis Environmental Action Group. If you are a teacher interested in collaborating with me on a creative climate action project, please email me at evelynsorohandaly@gmail.com.

It is supported by the Clare Arts Office, Clare Co Co Climate Office and Clare Education Centre

" This is my Wind Turbine, like the ones on Mount Callan. It creates Clean Electricity!" (4th class child CAPS programme)

Key Features of the CAPS Programme:

Environmental Education: Integrates hands-on learning about climate change, sustainability, and ecological responsibility into the school curriculum.
Collaborative Approach: Bring together educators, students, and creative professionals to work on impactful climate action projects.
Creative Learning Methods: Encourages the use of art, science, and technology to explore environmental themes in innovative ways.
Experiential learning: Is at the heart of the programme
Creative Practical Actions: Guides schools and students in identifying and implementing innovative tangible climate action goals.
Community Impact: Promotes sharing outcomes in the public realm, raising awareness and inspiring others to contribute to environmental sustainability.
Sustainable Materials: All model creations and inventions are made by students using waste materials

CAPS exemplifies the integration of education, creativity, and activism, inspiring the next generation to address climate challenges with informed and innovative solutions.

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