What we offer
The R team is a free digital resource for KS2, teaching students about the Waste Hierarchy (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover.)
It is set up to be delivered as four workshops and an introductory assembly. They are designed as slide presentations with story voice-overs and learning activities along the way. There are supplementary teacher notes to support resource delivery and spark class discussions.
The resource is centred on inspiring behaviour change, and empowering pupils to implement sustainable changes to their everyday life.
They can be delivered by teachers, or by a member of Veolia staff- either in-person or virtually.
A member of our team can deliver free in-person school visits to schools in Birmingham!
Our visits are curriculum-aligned to complement classroom learning. They are suitable for KS1, KS2, KS3, KS4 and beyond. Our resources are designed to be fun and interactive, using crafts, debates, and games to engage students.
Topics covered:
- KS1: Journey of Waste. Trace recycled materials from your home to their final destination.
- KS2: The Waste Hierarchy. Delve into the 4 Rs- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover
- KS3/ KS4/ beyond: 'What a Load of Rubbish!' A workshop exploring why recycling and other sustainable behaviours are important. We look at the waste management and recycling infrastructure in Birmingham.
Curriculum links:
- Science: learn to identify everyday materials, where they come from, and how they are recycled. Learn about Energy Recovery: how we generate energy from waste
- Geography: learn about resource depletion, climate change, pollution, and how the public, and the government, can make greener choices
- Art: craft activities using recycled materials
- PSHE: learn to make greener choices, and take responsibility for the community and the environment
Format:
- Single workshop (1 hour)
- Craft workshop (2 hours)
- Assembly (30 minutes)
- Story Reading: 'Munch and the Funny Tummy' (nursery/ reception) (20 minutes)
- Litter pick and workshop (1.5 hours)
Veolia can deliver our free educational sessions in the Visitor Centre.
This is a perfect field trip for eco-committees, school councils, or home educated groups! Pupils will gain a deeper understanding of how Birmingham handles its different waste streams. Learn about the journey recycling takes, and how we produce energy from household waste.
Address: Visitor Centre, Veolia, James Rd, B11 2BA
Community Groups
We deliver talks and workshops for community groups. Our knowledgeable staff provide an in-depth understanding will lead you through the journey of waste, explaining the process with engaging talks and hands-on activities. Participate in workshops that teach practical skills for sustainable living, such as composting, up-cycling, and reducing single-use plastics.
Topics covered:
- The Journey of Waste: How are recycled items transformed into new materials?
- 'What a Load of Rubbish!' Explore the Waste Hierarchy (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Recover), and how to implement it into your everyday life.
- Veolia in Birmingham: learn what waste processing and recycling facilities Veolia run to serve Birmingham's residents.
Format:
- Informational workshop (1 hour to 1.5 hours)
- Craft workshop (1.5 hours to 2 hours)
- Litter pick and workshop (1.5 hours to 2 hours)
SEND:
We welcome SEND groups and communities. We tailor our educational material to meet the specific needs of others, and ensure the session is appropriate and engaging.
Testimonials
Teacher, St John Fisher Primary School: 'The children had an amazing afternoon; the session was very informative and well planned with a perfect balance of practical activities and an excellent PowerPoint presentation. The children couldn’t stop talking about their afternoon trip on the minibus and to their peers.'
Teacher, Walmley Junior School: 'Our Year 3 children had a fantastic morning learning about the ‘Waste Hierarchy’. The workshop was interactive, informative and the children thoroughly enjoyed the sessions. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity.'
Teacher, Olive School: 'Children had lots of fun and were kept busy throughout the whole session. Videos were very good as well.'
Community Leader, St Germain's Church: 'It was very inclusive - lots of people from diverse cultures and social backgrounds and needs (including mental health, learning disabilities) felt able to join in.'