WAT COP 2025: Inspiring the Next Generation of Sustainability Leaders

27th November 2025

On Thursday 20th November, the energy at Windsor Olympus Academy was electric as we welcomed over 130 students from across the Windsor Academy Trust family for our fourth annual WAT COP.

Inspired by the global COP 30 currently taking place in Brazil, our student-led summit supports plans set out in our WAT Sustainability Strategy and mirrors the United Nations' efforts to empower young people to take the lead on sustainability. This year’s theme - Inspiration, Empowerment and Community - was evident throughout.

Chris Berry, our Chief Operating Officer, opened the day reminding staff and students alike about the collective effort and success we have experienced over the last year, but also reminding everyone of the need to continue to drive our impact forward. This was followed by a powerful keynote from Heena Dave (Climate Adapted Pathways for Education), who spoke about the vital role of finding your climate voice and developing leadership skills in driving climate action. Later, we were joined by Professor Jerry Pritchard from the University of Birmingham, who fascinated students with his insights into biodiversity and future forests.

The real magic happened in the workshops. Our Primary students got their hands dirty planting microgreens with Warm Earth and exploring the water cycle with Severn Trent. Meanwhile, our Secondary students stepped into the shoes of global decision-makers in a climate emergency simulation run by Schools of Tomorrow.

We were also supported by incredible partners including BBC Wildlife Trust, Greenpeace and the National Education Nature Park.

This event isn't just about one day of learning; it is about equipping our student Climate Ambassadors with the knowledge and confidence to return to their schools and drive real change. It is a huge step forward in our journey to becoming a Net Zero Trust.

Read more about COP 30 here