University of Winchester graduate authors shortlisted for award

A Clean Air Cycle to School by Emily Jordan and Katt Grover, which has been sent to 17 primary schools in Southampton, is in the running for a Green Gown Award.

Their story is about Maggie and Ned, cycling to school. When Ned becomes unwell from breathing in traffic fumes, he and Maggie are forced to think of a better route and Maggie becomes an eco-warrior.

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One of the illustrations from the book (Image: University of Winchester)

The book came about after Southampton City Council (SCC) approached the university for help in creating it as part of the council’s Clean Air Project, to explain to children and parents what air pollution is, where it comes from and how they can travel to school sustainably while avoiding exposure to air pollution.

Glenn Fosbraey, associate dean of Humanities and Social Sciences at the university, came up with the idea of combining the talents of two alumnae - writer Emily, who is also a Student Recruitment Events Officer at the University, with artist, designer and poet Katt.

Commenting on the nomination, Glenn said: “Being recognised in this way shows that the project is having a real impact on local children, and that was the aim from the start. We’re delighted to have reached the finals and hope we can take that final step and bring home the trophy!”

Emily, from the New Forest, said: “I was flattered that Glenn thought of me and remembered my interest in children’s fiction.”

Katt, who created the digital illustrations, has worked on several projects with Glenn.

However, she didn’t meet Emily in person until the book was printed.

Katt said: “She sent me the story and a lot of the scenes instantly came to life for me and I could see how the pictures would work.”

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From left: Emily Jordan, Katt Grover and Glenn Fosbraey (Image: University of Winchester)

The book has been shortlisted in the Benefitting Society category at the Green Gown Awards, sponsored by UKRI, which recognise exceptional sustainability initiatives undertaken by universities and colleges across the world.

Judges described the University of Winchester’s entry as a: “A great project which other Institutions could use to engage local Schools. An initiative combining student engagement and practical experience with knowledge share and education of children in environmental issues and the impact they can have through reducing air pollution by cycling to school.”

The winners will be announced at a ceremony to be held at Dynamic Earth Edinburgh on November 13.