18 Oct 2021
Moths to a Flame
An Exeter primary school will have a presence at the hugely anticipated international climate change conference, COP26, with a unique environmental art installation which is part of a nationwide project entitled ‘Moths to a Flame'
Last year, head teacher at Trinity School, Owen Wilder, asked the school’s Forest School leader to explore with the children the topic of solar energy. It was through this and learning about moths, and the vital role that they play as pollinators, that the school found out about a nationwide ‘Moths to a Flame’ project supported by the Arts Council, and started working with local artist, Chloe Uden.
Owen says: “Here at Trinity School we want to encourage children to explore, challenge and take risks independently. Working with forest school leaders and Chloe has been a great way for them to do this through learning about climate change and the importance of moths.”
Each child was invited to work with Chloe on the creation of giant moth artwork, on display in Princesshay Shopping Centre until 22 October, but which will then be taken to COP26 in electric vehicles to be shown to delegates from 200 different countries.
Owen said: “For our children to have a role to play at COP26 brings home the importance of understanding climate change, and our responsibility to do something about it.”
In addition to the project, the school is also looking to create solar panels from moth sculptures in the future. This work is part of a whole school approach helping to ensure that all children understand the topic and that it runs through all subject areas.
For instance, the school is also working alongside researchers at the University of Exeter and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, creating scratch meals to help the children to understand where food comes from, together with understanding the importance of using local and seasonal food wherever possible.
For more information please visit: www.trinityprimaryexeter.co.uk