Coldham Wind Farm provides ideal location for renewable energy learning experience

Coldham Wind Farm in Cambridgeshire is proving an ideal venue for young students to learn about renewable energy.

As part of the Energy Works programme for schools, students have the opportunity to investigate ways that the environment can be improved using wind and solar power. EcoStyle’s educational products are designed to make it easier to demonstrate exactly how the theory for renewable energy sources can work when put into practice.

Nicola Ayscough, Senior Teacher at CEES (Cambridgeshire Environmental Education Service) said:
‘We work with students from Key Stage 2 through to sixth formers looking at different sources of energy and their advantages and disadvantages, particularly with reference to climate change.'

'It’s good to work outside where possible and to incorporate investigative work. So for example with a Key Stage 2 class we might use EcoStyle’s Solar Photovoltaic Kit. We look at different sites round the school or education centre, testing where might be the best place to site a panel. We then ask the students to test out which area provides the best source of electricity using the motor, buzzer and LED units. These are a great learning tool and make the session interactive.'

‘With EcoStyle’s Wind Turbine Kit the students investigate how wind energy produces electricity, comparing output with different numbers of blades. This session works well with older students as well. Students then experience the full scale wind turbines at Coldham Wind Farm.'

Energy Works is the result of a partnership of Cambridgeshire Environmental Education Service with Fenland District Council, The Co-operative Group, and Scottish Power Renewables. The Centre at Coldham Wind Farm, near March in Cambridgeshire, provides an ideal location to study with a variety of courses encouraging children to make informed decisions about the environment and lifestyle choices.

Contact details:

Nicola Ayscough
Farm Office

Coldham Hall Farm
Coldham Estate
Coldham
WISBECH
Cambs PE14 0LX