Fairtrade Fortnight has been the theme for our focus week this week and has enabled us to raise awareness of a range of issues related to the work of the Fairtrade Foundation. Fairtrade Fortnight runs from 27 February – 12 March 2023 and takes place at the same time each year.
Fairtrade is a global movement with a strong and active presence in the UK, represented by the Fairtrade Foundation. Fairtrade is a movement for change that works directly with businesses, consumers and campaigners to make trade deliver for farmers and workers.
This year their campaign focuses on the impact of climate change on the farming industry across the globe and how in turn this could impact on the future availability of some of our most popular food products. The ‘Endangered Aisle’ campaign highlights the risk to crops such as tea, coffee, cocoa and bananas. In order to support farmers across the globe, we can buy Fairtrade branded products. Fairtrade products have been produced by farmers who are supported by the Fairtrade Foundation and receive access to education across their communities as well as a fair price for the produce the grow. They are supported in managing a sustainable business in the face of climate change.
As part of the week, students have received assemblies telling them all about Fairtrade and the ‘Endangered Aisle’ as well as watch an investigation carried out by our Sixth Form showing them how they can shop more ethically. We must say a huge thank you to the Central Co-op at Boley Park in Lichfield, who allowed us to film in their store and donated some Fairtrade tea, coffee and chocolate to the staffroom. Take a look at the video produced by Tom Purkis and Vinnie Lee in Year 12 by following the link below.
In addition to this, we have been serving Fairtrade hot chocolate in the canteen. Something we will continue to do after this week.
Our tutor activity this week has also raised awareness of the issues facing the British farming industry and how the cost of living crisis has been impacting them. Next week we will be interviewing representatives from the local farming industry and will be sharing their views on how consumers can support the sector.
Lottie Hearn, Deputy Headteacher, said: “This week, has been so important in raising awareness around Fairtrade, climate change and ethical shopping. It has been great to see our Sixth Form representatives do some great work in collaboration with the Central Co-Op and the local farming industry. Their participation sets a real example for younger students showing them how they can get involved and support the local and global community.”
