Welcoming a ‘Green June’

How can we turn environmental concern into classroom curiosity?

As we move out of the high-pressure weeks of May, June usually brings a shift in the classroom atmosphere. With the sun out and the sound of swallows screeching, it is the perfect time to pivot away from the desks and look toward the natural world.

With World Environment Day and World Rainforest Day approaching, June offers a unique window to deepen children’s connection to the planet. Our resources make these vital topics approachable, positive, and easy to manage.

The best way to get kids to care about the environment is to get them outside. For World Environment Day (June 5), we’re starting with a hypothetical scenario that hits closer to home: the local council needs your pupils' help. There’s an old industrial site in town that they want to turn back into a wildlife haven. The question for your class isn't "how do we save the planet?"—it's "what actually used to live here, and what do those plants and animals need to come back?"

• Try this: Our Year 4 Science: Help Our Habitats! block isn't just about reading; it's about debating, investigating, and actually planning a restoration.

By World Oceans Day (June 8), we can take that curiosity further. Even for land-locked schools, the ocean is a brilliant way to explore the "science of wonder" - looking at the seas and continents that surround the UK and understanding how waves are caused and how they move

• Try this: Our Key Stage 1: Oceans and Seas project is a great way to understand our blue planet.

During Healthy Eating Week (June 8–12), we can help children see that 'going green' isn't just about the big world outside; it’s about the small things we do at home.What we eat and how we look after ourselves is the most direct way we interact with the planet every day.

• Try this: For the older kids, our Year 6 Science: A Healthy Body resources help connect their own health to the bigger global systems we all rely on.

We wrap up the month with World Rainforest Day (June 22). It is important for students to learn how to save the rainforests! Investigate the link between deforestation and climate change. Create a climate change information video to raise awareness. Begin to take action and make insect homes, bird feeders and plant your own mini forests and gardens. Promote awareness of this important issue.

• Try this: Dive into Lower Key Stage 2: Saving the Rainforest to look at the vital role these ecosystems play in all our lives.

In our recent Primary Futures podcast, science educator and author Jules Pottle made a great point: the best science starts with a story. When we use narrative and compassion to teach about the environment, the learning sticks.

June doesn’t have to be just another month on the calendar. It’s a chance to get outside, get creative, and provide our pupils with the tools they need to engage with the world around them.

How are you going green this month? We’d love to see your classroom (and playground!) projects in action.