Spring 2024 Sustrans Air Quality Workshop

On Monday 8th January, Ashlea from Sustrans visited St Stephens to deliver an air quality workshop. Children were fascinated by the live air pollution data, especially comparing morning and afternoon data and focussing on areas in London: why were certain areas more 'red' than others? It was explained that Stansted Airport was located in that area and Class 5 were astonished to hear that airplanes contribute to a high level of air pollution.

Next, children were excited to use hand-held microscopes to explore surfaces up close. It was fascinating to see the different materials and what other hidden 'nasties' we could find!

Class 5 then took their learning outdoors and observed the lichen growing in our school field. Questions such as 'Why does lichen grow? Where does lichen grow?' were discussed. Lichen is a great indicator of good/clean air quality. Class 5 were quick to find lots of lichen which was brilliant to hear that we go to school in an area of good air quality!

Children have been given a blank postcard to take home. They have been asked to replace a journey that they would normally do by car by walking, riding or scooting and write about it. Ashlea will come and collect the postcards and a little prize will be won by a lucky student. Good luck!