Bohemian FC’s Spark Skills Empowers Community Through Learning About Climate Action
Over the past year, Bohemian Football Club, along with partners from across the community, have been developing “The Spark”, taking a bold step into community education and climate action. On 26 August 2024, The Spark began its pilot education programme aimed at upskilling and educating community members on topics such as bike mechanics, renewable energy, retrofitting, community development, and cooperative principles, using a curriculum developed specifically for the programme.
The nine-week programme is led by teacher Barry Semple and action researcher Leo McDonnell. Their vision extends beyond education; they aim to ignite a movement that will culminate in the launch of a new climate cooperative in November 2025.
The pilot programme is made up of two cohorts, consisting of 12 learners in total. The first cohort started on 26 August, while the second began on 5 September. This structured approach allows for more personalised instruction and encourages learners from the pilot to provide feedback and reflections to further strengthen the course. The idea is that this feedback will inform revisions to the course before it is offered to Bohemian’s members, fans, and the wider community. Already, 150 people have signed up to take the course.
What sets The Spark apart is its unique approach to climate action. Rather than focusing solely on environmental issues, the programme emphasises community wealth-building and social equity. By addressing climate change through this lens, The Spark ensures that learners understand the importance of making solutions accessible to all and addressing the social and economic inequalities that often hinder the widespread adoption of sustainable practices.
“I’ve been involved in two classes so far, focusing on bike mechanics and solar energy. The first class was a fantastic introduction. Barry led us through several icebreakers, which really helped break down barriers among participants. We then delved into the fundamentals of bike mechanics. Barry walked us through the most important parts of a bike, explaining the role of each component. It was hands-on and incredibly informative.”
“The second class centred around solar energy, led by Leo. He shared key facts about the importance of renewable energy in today’s world. This class was highly interactive; we learned how to wire a solar panel to a battery effectively. Leo emphasised cooperation by splitting us into groups for the task. This not only made the learning process enjoyable but also highlighted the power of teamwork. Everyone collaborated to complete the project, making it a memorable experience.”
Cian Murray, participants from the second cohort of The Spark Skills
Building Community Through Collaboration
The focus on collaboration throughout the classes underscores the importance of community involvement in climate action. By working together, participants not only gain valuable skills but also build relationships that strengthen community bonds. This collective approach is crucial for tackling large-scale, structural issues like climate change.
The Spark’s educational programmes play a key role in their overarching goal: the formation of a climate cooperative in the coming year. By equipping community members with the knowledge and skills needed to implement sustainable solutions, The Spark is laying the groundwork for a more resilient and equitable community.
“Our hope is that people who take part in Spark Skills will stay with us. We want to create pathways into climate jobs so that our community can benefit from the transition we are all a part of.”
Seán McCabe, Head of Climate Justice and Sustainability at Bohemian Football Club
As the programme progresses, there is excitement for the potential of the community education initiative. The hands-on learning experiences, coupled with the emphasis on cooperation and community wealth-building, make The Spark a beacon of positive change. The final module will see learners going out into the community to make a difference – whether it’s supporting local people to better insulate their homes, or refurbishing old bikes for those experiencing hardship – the purpose of the course is to learn and then apply that knowledge to take real action.
Bohemian FC’s initiative demonstrates how football clubs can leverage their influence to drive social change beyond the pitch. By investing in their community’s education and empowerment, they are showcasing what the sport can achieve. Whether you’re a football fan, a climate action enthusiast, or someone looking to make a difference in your community, The Spark offers an opportunity to be part of something transformative.
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