Mock COP is an innovative programme for pupils and practitioners in secondary schools to learn more about and speak up on climate change issues, and to become country delegates themselves in mock negotiations with teams from other schools.
This immersive and participatory experience aims to give young people an insight into climate politics and the challenges of climate negotiations, all while building important Global Citizenship skills including political literacy, critical thinking, communication, empathy and an ability to manage complexity and uncertainty.
Culminating with an in-person event at the Inverness Highland Council Chambers, the programme includes activities to support pupil participation across all age groups in school in the run up to the event.
This includes:
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Professional learning to equip teachers with active and participatory, rights-based approaches and methodologies for exploring the climate emergency with learners – delivered by Highland One World.
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A comprehensive pack of preparation activities for the Mock COP, including cross-curricular materials to support embedding Learning for Sustainability and pupil participation across your school.
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Catch up sessions with practitioners at other schools.
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Input from expert external organisations to help teams prepare for negotiations.
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Support and input at the Mock COP for delegate teams from Open University facilitators and academics.
“Overall, the day was a really helpful and insightful experience, developing negotiation skills, confidence to speak in front of groups and simply just awareness of what is happening right now in our world. I learned a lot about what COP actually is and actions I could take to help in the movement against climate change.” Delegate- Culloden Academy
Mock COP 31
Mock COP 31 will be held on Monday 2 November 2026. If your school would like to take part – please get in touch with catriona@highlandoneworld.org.uk
Deadline for applications for Mock COP 31 is June 26, 2026
