Business in the Community’s green schools project awarded SSE Airtricity support
Business in the Community’s green schools project awarded SSE Airtricity support
Responsible business network Business in the Community (BITC NI) is proud to announce that its Generation Green Schools work inspiration initiative has secured funding through the Generation Green Community Fund by SSE Airtricity, one of 56 projects to receive funding across Northern Ireland and Ireland.
Generation Green Schools aims to empower post-primary students in Northern Ireland to become informed, confident leaders in sustainability.
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.
Keelin McCone, Head of Environment, BITC NI said: “We are delighted to receive funding via SSE Airtricity to deliver the Generation Green Schools initiative. We’re focused on preparing young people for the green careers of the future and this engaging, curriculum-aligned programme will bring climate learning to life through real-world experiences, practical activities, and industry connections.”
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 business mentors, 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 workshop sessions exploring carbon literacy, renewable energy, circular economy, reducing waste, and biodiversity.
Announcing the funding allocations, Stephen Gallagher, Managing Director of SSE Airtricity, said: “I’m delighted that the SSE Airtricity Generation Green Community Fund is supporting such a wide range of ambitious, community-led sustainability projects. Achieving net zero is a shared responsibility, and these initiatives show how vital local leadership is in Ireland’s green energy transition.
“We have listened to the needs of our communities, and they’ve told us what matters most – from improving biodiversity to enhancing local infrastructure and education. We understand the challenges many projects and groups face in accessing funding resources, and we’re proud to play a part in enabling them to create lasting environmental and social impact.”
Generation Green Schools will commence in September 2025. Contact environment@bitcni.org.uk for more information.