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Young people of Epping came together to educate each other on the local and global environment, as members of the eco team at hosted Earth Day at St John’s Church.

Throughout the day, 160 Year 5 and 6 pupils from five local primary schools worked with Year 8, 9 and 10 students to take part in activities and presentations on the local and global environment.

Stations included presentations on the history of the Earth, the plant and wildlife of Epping Forest, the problems the planet faces including pollution, climate change and plastics, solutions around the house and an environmental quiz.

Michael Johns, head of performing arts, said: “The aim of this event was to celebrate our planet and to encourage reflection in the young people of this district on the actions they can take to help protect the planet.

“It was a very successful day where the young people of Epping taught and inspired each other on a hugely important topic and hopefully inspired each other to be the change-makers of tomorrow.

“Young people have an amazing ability to teach each other, and it is inspiring and heartening to see our subtends sharing their knowledge in creative ways an exciting to see how much the primary pupils already know and can contribute to these conversations.

“I think it is hugely important that we give young people the agency to organise and inspire each other for social change and that they can do so demonstrates the Christian ethos of demonstrating integrity by living well together and looking after our community and natural environment.

“Epping St John’s students gained confidence in their ability to present their research and educate younger students about important topics, while also having the opportunity to discuss and share solutions with the participants. They were also inspired by the knowledge that some of the primary students came with, which will encourage them to learn more and push themselves in this area.”

The Rev Olivia Maxfield-Coote said: “All the primary schools were really impressed with the day and very pleased that they attended. “Epping St John’s students displayed a wealth of knowledge which they shared in a confident and engaging way. They worked very hard and were a joy to host.”

The event followed a collaboration project last year between the school and church for COP26.

Follow the eco club’s work at @EcoTeamESJ on Twitter.