Secondary School Curriculum Enrichment Session

In a world facing climate change, resource shortages, and increasing waste, green design plays a key role in creating a more sustainable future. Eco-focused design goes beyond appearance, focusing on products, spaces, and systems that reduce environmental impact while improving everyday life. This workshop supports Design & Technology, Science, Geography, PSHE, Art & Design, English, and STEM, helping pupils understand how design and innovation can address real-world environmental challenges.

Pupils explore how sustainable choices can improve communities and support long-term environmental wellbeing. They learn about renewable, recycled, and low-impact materials, linking to Science (materials and sustainability) and Geography (climate change, waste, and human impact).

Through hands-on exploration, students examine real eco-designed products and meet examples of influential designers. This develops Design & Technology skills in product analysis, evaluation, and sustainable design, while encouraging creativity and problem-solving through STEM learning.

Pupils also discuss issues around consumption, waste, and responsibility, supporting PSHE and Citizenship, and strengthening English skills through discussion, reasoning, and communication. They then explore a range of upcycled objects, linking to Art & Design through creative reuse and visual design.

Practical Upcycling Activity

Pupils take part in a hands-on making activity, transforming a used Tetra Pak carton into a functional wallet. This develops Design & Technology skills in making, evaluating, and problem-solving, while reinforcing STEM understanding of materials and reuse.

By the end of the session, pupils understand how small actions can make a real environmental difference. They leave with practical making skills, increased environmental awareness, and a stronger understanding of sustainable design.

Workshop Details

• Duration: 45–60 minutes
• Suitable for groups of up to 35 or 70 students
• Supports KS3 and KS4 Design & Technology, Science,  PSHE, Art & Design, English and STEM
• Interactive exploration of sustainable design, eco-innovation and upcycling
• Hands-on creation of a recycled Tetra Pak wallet to take home