Department for Education Youth Focal Points Jodie Bailey-Ho and Will Wale will be finishing their two year term on 30th June 2025, and handing the baton over to three new Youth Sustainability Champions, to be announced on 1st July 2025.
Supported by SOS-UK, Jodie and Will have been brilliant advocates for youth voice and the integration of sustainability in our education system. Over the last two years they have worked across government departments, with schools and youth groups, climate organisations and government stakeholders. They've both represented the UK on a world stage at COP, and recently supported the recruitment of the next cohort. They've challenged ministers, engaged young people and consistently raised the critical importance of bringing young people into decision making around climate and education.
Jodie shared some of her thoughts about her experiences in the role:
When I first applied for this role, (not only did I not think I would get it!) I don’t think I fully grasped just how much I’d learn, grow, and be challenged — or how many remarkable people I’d get to work with along the way. It’s been a privilege to sit at the table with policymakers, civil servants, and young people alike, all united by the understanding that education has a critical role to play in the fight against climate change.
Over the past two years, I’ve had the chance to:
- Advise on the refresh of the Department for Education’s Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy, making sure young people’s voices weren’t just heard but reflected in the process
- Represent the UK at COP29, advocating for climate education and youth inclusion on an international stage
- Engage directly with ministers and senior officials to push for more ambitious and inclusive approaches to climate policy
- Collaborate with teams across government and civil society to strengthen the role of sustainability in schools — from nature-based learning to green careers
- Design and deliver national youth engagement sessions, helping shape how students across the country participate in climate decision-making
What I’ll take with me most, though, is the belief that things can — and are — changing. Slowly, but surely. I’ve seen how student voice can shift the tone of a meeting. I’ve seen how policy teams are beginning to listen more carefully, more curiously. I’ve seen how young people, when given real space and trust, raise the bar every single time. Of course I’m sad to be leaving the role, but more than that I am incredibly excited to pass the baton to three new amazing young people to be the next Youth Sustainability Champions. I know they will be vital in continuing to progress climate education, and I can’t wait to see what they have in store.
Everyone at SOS-UK would like to wish Jodie and Will the absolute best with their inevitably stellar futures - we are excited to watch everything they will achieve!