Schools to celebrate Fairtrade’s 20th birthday this autumn

Thousands of children in primary schools will be hosting the UK’s first Fairtrade Bakesale Party, to celebrate Fairtrade’s 20th birthday this autumn.

The campaign has been launched by the Fairtrade Foundation, and aims to help children learn about global issues whilst raising money to increase the impact of Fairtrade.

Using fun, interactive activities, the campaign helps develop understanding about Fairtrade and how it can help tackle poverty in developing countries.

2014 marks 20 years since the very first products carrying the FAIRTRADE Mark were sold in the UK. Now there are over 4,500 different items sold in the UK bearing the logo.

Thanks to the support of the public and campaigners, an increasing number of farmers and workers in developing countries are now selling their products on Fairtrade terms, bringing them a stable income, and the chance to work their own way out of poverty.

Kate Jones, Education Campaigns Manager, said: “Since the launch of the FAIRTRADE mark in 1994, more than 1.4 million farmers and workers have secured a better deal for their work, and improved the livelihood for their families.

“The Fairtrade Bakesale Party is a brilliant way to introduce pupils to Fairtrade and the people who grow some of the foods we eat every day. With our world map poster and worksheets, pupils will learn new skills and have great fun along the way, but most importantly taking part will empower them to make a difference to the lives of marginalised people in poorer countries.

“We hope schools across the UK will join us to celebrate Fairtrade’s 20th birthday and help bring Fairtrade to more of the people who need it most.”

In developing countries many of those who grow the products we consume in the UK earn less than it costs to run their farm. Raising money for the Fairtrade Foundation will help farmers to earn a fair price for their work, as well as a little extra – the Fairtrade Premium – which is invested for instance in clean drinking water, healthcare and education for children in the community.

Schools have been a big part of the Fairtrade movement. The Bakesale Party could be a first step towards achieving one of the nationally recognised Fairtrade School Awards, designed to teach the next generation that through everyday actions they have the power to change the world around them. There are now over 1,300 Fairtrade Schools in the UK, and that number continues to rise thanks to the support of dedicated teachers and students across the UK.

Teachers can register now and download a free resources pack at  www.fairtrade.org.uk/bakesale that includes a lesson plan, a world map, student activities and event resources to help them organise their Bakesale Party.