18 July 2025
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Daikin UK, announced a new partnership, supported by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA). The collaboration will deliver curriculum-linked climate education into Greater Manchester schools.
The initiative aims to tackle the green skills and sustainable education gap by connecting classroom learning directly to sustainable careers in the growing green economy. It seeks to turn climate anxiety into positive action by providing students aged 7-14 with a clearer vision for a sustainable future.
Developed by Generation C in collaboration and consultation with Daikin UK experts, the programme features unique learning resources driven by Daikin’s real-world stories that integrate into the National Curriculum across STEAM subjects. Students will explore energy-efficient technologies like Daikin’s air source heat pumps and gain insights into career paths within the renewables and HVAC sectors.
Building on Generation C's approach of connecting education with industry, the programme leverages Daikin UK's expertise in driving decarbonisation through innovative heating and cooling solutions. The initiative launches initially in two pilot schools within Greater Manchester, including Butterstile Primary School in Prestwich and St Ambrose Barlow Secondary School in Swinton, before the rollout across the region.
Tomoji Miki, Managing Director of Daikin UK, said: "Daikin UK is committed to a sustainable future through technological innovation. Achieving widespread adoption of solutions like heat pumps requires a skilled workforce for tomorrow. Partnering with Generation C, with the vital support of the GMCA, allows us to invest directly in the next generation here in Greater Manchester. We want to showcase the exciting careers available and help build the talent pipeline essential for the UK’s transition to Net Zero."
Phil Wharton, Co-founder of Generation C, stated: "As someone born and bred in Manchester, this is a special moment. Climate change and our transition as a society to a more sustainable way of living is a significant challenge, but education is crucial in unlocking effective solutions as it sparks curiosity, fosters innovation, and can energise the wider community. We need to empower the next generation, show them the positive impact they can have, and equip them with practical skills to look at suitable career roles. Partnering with industry visionaries like Daikin, supported by the strategic insight of the GMCA, allows us to provide young people in Greater Manchester with genuine hope, purpose, and the tools to build a sustainable future."
This collaboration provides insight into future-focused education, the practical application of green technology, and the power of partnership in tackling the climate challenge.
