The first major initiative in the ESU Climate Change and Green Issues season is the Education Department’s Poetree Competition for London primary schools.

Imagine a World Without Trees is the theme and is inspired by the 2009 Marsh Award for Children’s Literature in Translation. This award is administered by the ESU and the 2009 winner is Toby Alone, translated into English by Sarah Ardizzone, a novel with a powerful ecological message.

Entry is free, and schools are being asked to submit a minimum of 10 poems of any style and length. The winning school will receive copies of Toby Alone, donated by Walker Books, and a workshop delivered by Sarah.

Katherine Plummer, the ESU’s Head of Education Programmes says: “We are excited about engaging with children and schools in London, in this way. It is a great way for branches to become more involved with their local schools and communities and we hope that they will take advantage of this opportunity.”

Further information downloadable support materials about the Poetree Competition can be found at www.esu.org/green or by contacting Katherine Plummer at education@esu.org.

The ESU is planning a series of events around the topic of climate change. More details are available on www.esu.org/green and in the November issue of ESU News.

Poetree Competition for London Primary Schools

International Action: Too Little, Too Late? Q&A session with Professor Bob Spicer and other leading climate experts at Imperial College, London

Branches events

The English-Speaking Union invites you to a private view in aid of the Chilton Art History Scholarship at Fortnum and Mason. Fortnum & Mason owns a collection of British and overseas paintings dating from the 18th century to the present day. The collection includes works by the master of the seascape, Montague Dawson, to pieces commissioned from Francis Hamel. Fortnum’s archivist, Dr Andrea Tanner, will give a brief talk on the background of the collection before a guided tour of the artwork on display.
Doors 5pm, Reception 6pm, followed by talk and tour at 6.30pm.
Tickets: £22.50 to include wine and canapés.

Download a ticket application form.