We are delighted to invite S4-S5 French learners (aged 14-16) from Scottish schools to participate in the Franco-British Youth Ocean Conference, taking place on 27-28 November 2025.
Apply by 12pm, Wednesday 4 June
In recognition of the UN Ocean Conference in Nice this June, France has declared 2025 its "Year of the Sea". This exciting event emerges from the Memorandum of Understanding between UK and French Ministries of Education, representing a prestigious opportunity for your pupils to engage with global environmental challenges while enhancing their language skills.
Pupils will take part in COP (Conference of the Parties) simulation, offering a face-to-face role-playing exercise based around the UN climate change negotiations.This ‘mini-COP’ format will be explored through three one-hour webinars during the preparatory phase to familiarise pupils with the political dynamics and structure of a COP. Pupils will prepare to discuss issues related to the seas and oceans, such as plastic pollution, rising sea levels, sustainable fisheries management or marine biodiversity.
Five Scottish schools will join forces with French partner schools for this fully funded conference
What Your School Could Experience:
- Two-day event format (afternoon, evening, following morning) with convenient travel arrangements
- Each Scottish school will send 6 pupils (ideally from two different classes) and 2 teachers to collaborate with French counterparts
- Development of lasting partnerships with French schools through joint environmental projects
- Opportunity to participate in a bilingual environmental action around World Water Day and/or Semaine de la francophonie (March 2026)
- All travel, accommodation and meals fully funded by British Council France and the French Ministry
Making a Difference for Our Oceans
This conference provides an opportunity for young people to explore climate, Learning for Sustainability and Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water), giving your learners the chance to:
- Collaborate internationally on pressing environmental challenges
- Develop their French language skills
- Contribute to meaningful environmental action with global impact
- Build valuable international friendships and connections
Who Should Apply?
We encourage applications from all local authority secondary schools across Scotland, with a special welcome to schools in coastal communities whose pupils may have direct experience with marine environments.
Please note, pupils and teachers must be available on 27-28 November 2025 to travel and participate in the conference. Attendance at pre-event webinars will also be expected.
Express Your Interest by Wednesday 04 June
Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to inspire your pupils while addressing crucial environmental challenges through international collaboration.
To express your interest or to learn more, please complete this short form: