SSE Airtricity Generation Green Schools
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Generation Green Schools is a Business in the Community work inspiration initiative funded by the Generation Green Community Fund by SSE Airtricity, which aims to empower post-primary students in Northern Ireland to become informed, confident leaders in sustainability.

Both schools and businesses are invited to get involved in this initiative, free-of-charge thanks to funding from SSE Airtricity.

Between September 2025 and June 2026, 44 schools across Northern Ireland will participate in a four-module programme designed to build students’ knowledge and confidence in key areas of sustainability. Students will engage in STEM-based challenges, sustainability projects, and receive visits from green professionals, to show how classroom learning connects to real careers. Toolkits, digital resources, and biodiversity guides will support further classroom learning.

Each participating class (Year 10 or Year 11) will receive four inspiring classes (single or double period) exploring the following:

  • Carbon Literacy: Understanding climate science and how to take action
  • Energy Matters: Learning about renewable energy and sustainable solutions
  • Circular Economy: Reducing waste and designing smarter systems
  • Biodiversity: Protecting nature and local ecosystems

The initiative is aimed at schools in areas of socio-economic challenge, aligning with curriculum priorities and helping to close the opportunity gap in green skills education. It prepares young people for the green careers of the future and is engaging and curriculum-aligned, bringing climate learning to life through real-world experiences, practical activities, and industry connections.

Pictured L>R back row: Keelin McCone, Head of Environment, Business in the Community; Vicky Boden, Senior Community Investment Manager, SSE; Stephen Gallagher, Managing Director, SSE Airtricity; Dr Lisa McIlvenna, Managing Director, Business in the Community. Front row: Eva Bettany, Student, Newtownabbey; Oisin McCone, Student, Armagh.

Get involved | Businesses

Professionals working in sustainable industries are key to this initiative and will provide inspiration and guidance to pupils thinking about their future.

We are seeking volunteers working in sustainable industries or in environment/climate related roles across NI who are able to:

  • Attend at least one school with a Business in the Community facilitator to support the delivery of session/s lasting no longer than one hour each. The time commitment is flexible and arranged to align with both the volunteer’s availability and the needs of the school.
  • Present to the class about their career path and current role and responsibilities, and answer any questions the pupils may have
  • Answer a few questions around your education and career trajectory. This will be added to our Generation Green Schools Digital Hub Careers Profiles page and shared with teachers and pupils, to inspire them about ‘green careers’ and roles related to sustainability. Click here to submit. 
  • Optional: Provide a short video piece about your career path, a typical week in your role, and the things you love about your work, to be added to the Generation Green Schools Resource Hub 

If you would be interested in volunteering, please complete this form.

If you are unable to volunteer in person but would be willing to provide a short video piece as described above, please contact environment@bitcni.org.uk.

Get involved | Schools

Click here to download the Information Sheet for Schools.

If your school would be interested in taking part in Generation Green Schools, please click here to complete the Expression of Interest form.

Please note that schools with 30% pupils who claim free school meals will be given priority, but if you do not meet this criteria your school will not necessarily be excluded from participating.

Further information