Over 600 children and young people from 17 schools across the Highlands and Moray took part in this year’s Art for Action project with Highland One World (HOW). The project encouraged learners to think critically and act creatively on the climate issues that matter most to them, while providing opportunities to share their perspectives with policymakers and ensure their calls for climate justice were heard, seen and valued.  

After learning about key climate issues, children and young people translated their ideas into creative projects raising awareness and calling for change on the topics they felt most passionate about. Their artwork took centre stage at a public exhibition and event at Inverness Botanic Gardens, which brought together MSPs, MPs, local councillors, business and third sector leaders, educators and young people.  

Pupils from Lochardil Primary and Speyside High School delivered powerful speeches on the urgent need for climate justice, before children had the opportunity to discuss the messages in their artwork directly with decision-makers. The event created space for meaningful dialogue between those shaping policy and the young people whose futures are most affected by climate change.  

The impact of their contributions reached far beyond the Highlands: artwork from the project was featured in climate justice galleries in both the UK and Scottish Parliaments and was even reference during a debate in Holyrood.  

As part of the project, HOW has launched a new creative toolkit designed to support upper-primary and secondary teachers facilitate learner-led artivism projects focused on social and environmental justice. 

Teachers can explore examples of artwork produced by children and young people from across the north of Scotland in the Art for Action Gallery, and contributions from learners from across Scotland are warmly welcomed.