Sir Peter Blake Forum Opportunity for HB Students

Applications are open for this year’s Sir Peter Blake Youth Environment Forum with places for up to six students plus a new place for a teacher or parent to represent Hawke’s Bay.

This annual event will be held in Wellington on 11-15 April.

The Ministry for the Environment runs this event in partnership with the Sir Peter Blake Trust and the travel, food and accommodation are fully sponsored.

Students need to be 15-18 years, involved in their school and/or community, passionate about making an active contribution to the environment.  The two best student applicants will be guaranteed places, while up to four other Hawke’s Bay applicants will go into a national pool for selection.

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council community engagement coordinator Emily Rockwell says that there is a new opportunity for a Hawke’s Bay teacher or a parent interested in environmental matters to attend as a participant and chaperone.

“This could be an ideal opportunity for a teacher or a parent interested in environmental education to gain some professional development and work with local students in a different setting,” said Ms Rockwell.

Sixteen regional councils in New Zealand are invited to select young environmental leaders to represent their region at this national forum. Students spend four days in workshops and activities, culminating with a presentation of their projects to invited guests at Parliament Building’s Grand Hall.

Projects typically focus on important topical environmental issues such as e-waste, water conservation, sustainable households, climate change and invasive species.

The Forum is hands on, student driven, and designed to inspire and build the capability of young environmental leaders. On returning to their regions, they are encouraged to continue with their environmental work and help lead other youth in environmental stewardship.

Teachers and students can find out more by texting 027 554 1141 with name, email or postal address, or emailing emily@hbrc.govt.nz .  Application forms are available on www.hbrc.govt.nz keyword search Sir Peter Blake.

Applications need to be with Hawke’s Bay Regional Council by 5pm Friday 26 February.