Greener Henley’s Environmental Science Fair Brings Together Schools and Students at The Henley College

The Henley College Hosts Greener Henley’s Environmental Science Fair for Schools

The Henley College was delighted to host Greener Henley’s Environmental Science Fair for Schools on Wednesday 12th November 2025 at Rotherfield Hall, welcoming nearly 120 children from 16 local schools for a morning of hands-on learning and environmental discovery.

Organised by Greener Henley, the town’s climate and nature charity, the event brought together schools, students and community leaders to explore how pollution affects the natural world and what we can all do to protect it. The fair featured 21 interactive activities, from investigating plastic pollution and acid rain to studying the effects of light and air pollution on ecosystems.

Now in its second year, the Environmental Science Fair forms part of Greener Henley’s Green Schools Awards framework, which supports and celebrates schools on their journey towards environmental sustainability, nature connection and climate resilience. The Awards help schools share ideas, develop Climate Action Plans, and build stronger networks of environmental leadership.

Kate Oldridge, Executive Director of Greener Henley, said:

“It’s been wonderful to see so many young people engaging so enthusiastically with environmental issues that matter deeply to their community. The Henley College has been incredibly supportive, providing space, equipment and student help throughout the day. The collaboration between primary, secondary and college students really brings the Green Futures Awards framework to life, empowering everyone to take part and make a difference. We are particularly grateful to the older students from Oratory School, Piggott School, Gillotts School and The Henley College who shared their knowledge and enthusiasm with the younger students through peer learning activities at the experiment stations. Also to the Henley College media students who filmed the event.”

Diana Barnett, Greener Henley’s Community Outreach Lead and event coordinator, added:

“The energy in the room has been fantastic. The older students have been brilliant role models, supporting activities and helping younger children learn through creativity and play. We even had an art project made from fishing nets to highlight the problem of plastics in our oceans – it really caught everyone’s attention.”

Students from The Henley College played a key role throughout the event. Media and Digital Arts students filmed and interviewed participants, documenting the fair and capturing the enthusiasm of both visitors and volunteers. Other students helped facilitate activities and guide school groups between sessions.

The experience gave students a valuable opportunity to apply their course skills to a real community project while contributing to a positive local cause.

Principal Simon Spearman said:

“It was wonderful to welcome the Greener Henley team to The Henley College. Pupils from local primary and secondary schools joined us for the activity morning, and it was fantastic to see them working alongside the Greener Henley team, our own students, and older pupils from The Oratory School. It was a genuinely uplifting community occasion, bringing together the next generation to build awareness and a deeper understanding of sustainability in action.”

Vice Principal Simon Wright said:

"It’s been a privilege for the College to host such an inspiring event and to see so many schools come together with Greener Henley. Our students were proud to play a small part in helping the day run smoothly and in shining a light on the brilliant environmental work happening across the town.”

Henley’s Deputy Mayor, Ian Reissmann, also praised the atmosphere:

“It’s been uplifting to see so many young people from different schools and ages learning together and talking passionately about the environment. Events like this show how collaboration and education can create lasting change.”

Among the Media students involved were Tom McBain, Caitlin Saunders, Daisy Parnwell and James Lloyd, who filmed and interviewed throughout the day.

Tom, founder of T McBain Media, said:

“It’s been really enjoyable and eye-opening. There’s so much to capture and think about – it’s great to use our skills for something that’s genuinely important.”

Media student Daisy Parnwell added:

“It was really inspiring to see how much the younger pupils already know and care about the environment. Talking to them made me realise how important it is that we keep learning and sharing ideas across all ages.”

Greener Henley continues to support climate and nature projects across the community, from biodiversity initiatives to flood risk awareness. Its next event, The Big Green Conversation: Protecting What We Love – Tackling Flooding and Pollution in Henley, will take place at the Kenton Theatre on Wednesday 26th November 2025, bringing together local expert voices to discuss practical steps for a more resilient future.

To find out more or to get involved, visit www.greenerhenley.org.uk or follow Greener Henley on social media.
Schools interested in registering for the Green Futures Awards can contact: gh.schools25@gmail.com.