A HANDS-ON project designed to involve children in practical ways of saving energy has been launched in St Helens.

Small Change is a new pilot programme being run by Global Action Plan, in partnership with Groundwork and St Helens Council.

The innovative project aims to help young people to use energy more efficiently and take the message home from school into their homes. The scheme, which involves the District Church of England Primary School and St Mary's Junior School, both in Newton-le-Willows, aims to:

Explode the myth that looking after the environment is dull and costs the earth.

Provide practical ideas and advice in a relevant way.

Help young people explore the reason for change by linking into the national curriculum to sow the seeds for a life-long learning approach to healthier societies and the environment.

Artist and energy specialist Mike Lofts is helping the youngsters to make miniature energy powered cars using wind and solar power.

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