Young poets from Glasgow primary schools showcased their talents at Òran Mór in a vibrant poetry slam focused on climate action.
The event, organized by Authors Abroad and Trees for Cities, aimed to inspire a connection to nature and raise awareness about climate change through creative expression. It marked Glasgow’s first-ever grand poetry final of its kind.
Òran Mór buzzed with excitement as students from St Brigid’s, St Denis’, Anderston, Cleeves, and St Timothy’s schools performed poems on topics ranging from nature and habitats to pollution. Many of the performances included creative choreographed routines.
Parents proudly watched their children confidently take the stage. One parent called the event a “brilliant way to combine creativity and climate awareness.”
The competition was fierce, with lines such as “We need to stop the pollution and find the perfect solution” from the St Denis’ team standing out.
Judge Simon Lamb, writer-in-residence at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, praised the event for sparking young imaginations. He highlighted how poetry, even in its simplest form, can connect young minds to important ideas.
Cleeves school won the competition with lines like “wildlife and nature don’t need any pollution; save the planet with a worldwide solution.”
Yvonne King, head of poetry slams, expressed her excitement, saying, “We’re absolutely delighted to have extended our successful poetry slams into Glasgow. We’ve been blown away by the talent, enthusiasm, and teamwork shown by the pupils and are so thankful to the schools and parents for their support.”
Louise Purnell, senior engagement manager from Trees for Cities, added, “It’s been absolutely wonderful seeing the pupils share their passion for nature through poetry. Events like this not only educate but empower young voices, fostering hope in the face of the climate crisis.”
