Empowering young people to take the lead on climate action
Tuesday, 8 July 2025
We have launched a new Sustainable Student Programme, offering young people in Years 10–12 (aged 14 to 17) the opportunity to explore climate change.
This also enables them to acquire green skills, and lead environmental initiatives in their schools.
Our Sustainability Team leads this free pilot initiative and unites students from across the region to learn from experts, participate in practical workshops and develop their own sustainability project.
The programme supports the council’s revised Sustainability Plan. Partner organisations include the University of Bedfordshire, Cranfield University, Shuttleworth College, Greensand Trust, and Whipsnade Zoo.
Students will also be supported to register for Eco-Schools, helping their schools take steps toward a greener future.
Councillor Tracey Wye, Executive Member for Sustainability and Climate Resilience, said:
This is a fantastic opportunity for young people in Central Bedfordshire who care about the environment to turn their passion into action. They’ll gain valuable skills, meet like-minded peers, and bring new ideas and energy to the work schools do to tackle climate change.
Applications open 1 September 2025. Students will need to complete a short application form and provide a teacher reference and parental consent. The window for application closes on 1 October.
The Central Bedfordshire Council’s refreshed Sustainability Plan, adopted in 2024, sets out a clear 'road map' of commitments and projects to work towards supporting the Central Bedfordshire area to be net zero carbon by 2030 and these projects are a key factor in helping us achieve that aim.