Tavernspite School continue their pioneering work supporting Fairtrade in Pembrokeshire. For years they have led the way studying, supporting and learning about Fairtrade. They recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Fairtrade Mark when Mrs Houghton, Class 4 teacher, invited Sharron Hardwick, Fair Trade Football Campaign founder, to the school.

Seven pupils from Class 4 led a presentation with Sharron sharing facts about how Fairtrade helps farmers, workers, producers, their families and communities.

The pupils shared six ways of how Fairtrade ensures workers receive a better deal using methods that encourage environmental protection and sustainability. They began by sharing how Fairtrade workers receive fair wages and Fair Prices for their products. They told how Fairtrade Premiums, extra money from each Fairtrade item sold, are paid to a committee of Fairtrade workers who decide how to use the funds to support local communities. Fairtrade Premiums are often used to pay for education, training, health care, clean water, decent sanitation and more.

The presenters shared how Fairtrade workers learn about and work in sustainable ways that are Good For The Environment. They told how Fairtrade helps farmers work together and sell their produce in groups called Co-operatives. This means they can support each other and have a stronger voice.

Tavernspite, a Fairtrade school, are part of the campaigners presenters mentioned. Campaigners work together to speak up for workers who are not getting a fair deal, informing people about Fairtrade and the positive difference it makes. Tavernspite have been working with Sharron via the Fair Trade In Football Campaign for years by hosting and playing Fairtrade football too.

Finally, the presenters shared that the trusted 25-year-old Fairtrade Mark we see on products is a direct link from us as consumers to the producers.

Sharron encouraged everyone, saying: “We have power in our hands to make choices that help others to have better lives.”

Pupils gave impressive answers showing how well they listened and understood during a quiz to remember the six things they learned about Fairtrade. Fairtrade prizes were presented to quiz winners and presenters.

Pupils produced work demonstrating ways to support Fairtrade on a Fairtrade Mark 25th birthday banner and are working on further Fairtrade learning logs which they will be sharing with the school during five-minute presentations. They had some excellent ideas, including Fairtrade enterprise and a Fairtrade masked parade.

Sharron expressed thanks to all at Tavernspite School for their caring attitude, continued support, learning and hard work.

Class 4 teacher Julie Houghton has been working tirelessly on Fairtrade action research, producing a folder of school based work linked to the new curriculum which is looking to be an important part of future education in Wales. Sharron sent samples of this work to the Fairtrade Schools Team and Bala Sport who said:

“Julie’s work is very impressive. Tavernspite’s support, especially in our case in the areas of Fairtrade Football and Rugby and the Fairtrade tournaments they hosted for the last six years, are a shining example for other schools to follow. Fairtrade needs schools like this producing this kind of learning which will ultimately result in sales of Fairtrade products to the benefits of producers and workers.” Angus Coull, Bala Sport.

Fairtrade Schools: schools.fairtrade.org.uk

Fair Trade In Football Campaign www.fairtradeinfootball.com

Fairtrade Sports Balls: www.balasport.co.uk