Fairtrade Schools
All across Ireland, students and teachers are raising awareness and availability of products with the FAIRTRADE Mark. A Fairtrade School is one that has made a commitment to supporting and using Fairtrade products.
So why become a Fairtrade School?
Because it's only fair that the people who produce what we eat, wear and use should get paid enough to live on and a chance to improve their lives. Fairtrade for the whole school means the school gets local and national recognition and contributes to making the world a fairer place
Fairtrade... for pupils and students
>> helps to develop lots of new skills
>> has a positive influence on the school community
>> is part of something that’s happening all over the country and around the world
>> is fun!
Fairtrade... for teachers
>> provides opportunities to enhance many areas of the curriculum
>> provides opportunities to explore citizenship from a global perspective
>> gives pupils an opportunity to participate and take responsibility for their decisions
>> encourages critical thinking, and offers opportunities for challenge and confidence building.
So how does a school become a Fairtrade School?
To become a Fairtrade School you need to meet 5 goals.
1. Cover Fairtrade in the classroom.
2. Show the Fair Comment Video in your school.
3. Get your teachers to serve only Fairtrade tea and coffee in the staff room.
4. If you have a canteen, tuck shop or vending machine convert some products to Fairtrade.
5. Organise a Fairtrade promotion or event during Fairtrade Fortnight.
To find out more on how to become a fairtrade School, download 'Got the Fairtrade Habit?'. This explains the goals in detail and also contains some useful tips and ideas. Once you have completed the 5 goals to become a Fairtrade School you can apply to Fairtrade Mark Ireland or to your local Fairtrade Town's Steering Committee for your Fairtrade Schools certificate.
Best of Luck with your campaign!
Got the Fairtrade Habit? (English Version)
An bhfuil Nós na Cóirthrádála agaibh? (Irish Version)
Fairtrade Schools Application Form
Fairtrade School Resources
Becoming a Fairtrade School is something that young people and adults can do together. To make it more fun, you can link up with other schools in your area and maybe plan some activities together. We have lots of resources to help you with you campaign. See Fairtrade school resources!
