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School for Cross-faculty Studies Global Sustainable Development

Our Work So Far

Wind turbines

Global Sustainable Development Competition

Global Sustainable Development hosts an annual competition for year 11 and 12 students (school pupils aged between 15 and 17 years), encouraging students to think creatively and gain valuable research skills as they learn more about global sustainable development. Shortlisted entrants are invited to a Global Sustainable Development event.

In 2018, topics included:
  • Sustainable development in Brexit negotiations;
  • 'Think global, act local'; and
  • Managing environmental resources.
In 2019, topics included:
  • Banning single-use plastics;
  • Closing the gender pay gap; and
  • Targets on global warming.
In 2020, topics included:

  • Local challenges to sustainable development;

  • Climate change deniers; and

  • Sustainable development and creation.

In 2021, topics included:
  • Sustainability and change;

  • The COVID-19 pandemic; and

  • United Nations COP26.

Student delivering presentation

Warwick Sutton Scholars Year 9 Programme

GSD contributes to the organisation and delivery of the Year 9 Sutton Scholars Programme. The Year 9 Programme consists of a two-day residential and several campus days, and it culminates with a graduation event. The Programme is run by the University's dedicated Widening Participation Team in collaboration with GSD staff and students.

"I really appreciate everything you guys have done for us and helping us as a generation making our future paths. The residential was amazing and I had one of the best times of my life, I wish we got to do it for another whole year. I am very happy that I graduated and just wanted to say thank you for helping us and getting us prepared for reality.” | Sutton Scholars student, 2018

Schools Engagement

GSD has provided several taster sessions in schools in the West Midlands and has been involved in initiatives run by the University's dedicated Widening Participation Team.

Examples of taster sessions delivered include:

  • A Sustainable Food Trail - an interactive exploration of the relationship between food and global sustainable development;
  • Managing Natural Resources: Designing a Marine Protected Area - an interactive simulation game exploring the complexities of marine policymaking.

Below is some feedback from our participants:

"I thoroughly enjoyed the session because it was delivered as if we were real students."

"The session was relevant and up-to-date. I enjoyed discussing the important issues raised."

"It has opened for me a new career path. I am now going to try to come to Warwick to study GSD."