BeNature: Ecocentric Leadership in Schools – A Hands-On Workshop

Are you ready to help shape the next generation of sustainability school leaders?

Join fellow educators, school leaders, and outdoor learning specialists for an inspiring and practical two-hour workshop exploring how schools can lead the way in fostering sustainable, nature-literate communities.

Grounded in the BeNature framework (www.benature.info) – a science-based model for growing strong human–nature relationships developed by Dr Matteo Giusti at the University of Surrey, this unique workshop will help you make sense of the Department for Education’s Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy into meaningful action in your school.

Through a dynamic World Café format, we’ll explore how schools can embed ecocentric values into everyday teaching, leadership, and community life, helping to meet the Government's Climate Action Plan goals while enriching wellbeing and learning.

What you’ll learn:

• Why ecocentric values matter for education, health, and sustainability
• Embedding meaningful nature experiences into school life
• Aligning school culture and operations with ecological values
• Tools and strategies for meeting the DfE Climate Action Plan mandate

What you’ll gain:

• A clear understanding of transformative sustainability learning and its benefits for wellbeing and sustainability
• Practical, evidence-based strategies to integrate into curriculum, leadership, and estate management
• A co-created BeNature Education Primer – a one-page action plan tailored to your school
• Connections with a growing network of “ecocentric education champions” supported by UNITAR

Expect meaningful conversation, fresh ideas, and connections that last well beyond the event. Refreshments will be provided, and every participant will receive a printed copy of the BeNature handbook and a certificate of attendance from UNITAR.

Let’s make nature a central partner in education, because the leaders of tomorrow are learning today.

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