MORE than 80 pupils descended on the Lakes School to learn about ‘valuing the little guy’.

‘Go Global’ saw children investigate a range of important topics centred on human migration, the sustainability of food supplies, human rights and Fairtrade.

A team of 12 year seven pupils, called ‘Global Leaders’, ran the day, which was attended by 82 year five and year six pupils from Hawkshead, Ambleside, St Cuthbert’s and Goodly Dale, Windermere, primary schools.

It was part of an initiative by the Global Learning Programme which aims to create a national network of like-minded schools, committed to equipping students to make a positive contribution to a globalised world.

In the classrooms and gardens at the Troutbeck Bridge school, pupils donned their safety glasses as they attempted to purify water and learned how to plant seeds.

Robin Sharp, head of Design & Technology and GLP co-ordinator, said: “We want to promote global learning and international mindedness in our young people. The government targets that in the next four years all schools will be engaged in the programme and help to build knowledge for tomorrow’s citizens.” Teaching assistant Matthew Taylor said: “It’s about promoting sustainability and getting pupils to appreciate where their food comes from. “We need to get them thinking about air miles in other countries and any choices they can make ethically for the good of the world.”

Head teacher Andy Cunningham said: “The day was about bringing together a range of age groups to think about the future and to listen to each other’s ideas. We need to learn how to value the little guy and get people to understand there are more sustainable ways of engaging with people who provide us with our food.”