Binstead Primary School welcomed a familiar face recently when the chair of the Isle of Wight Council, Councillor Ian Dore, returned to his old school to speak with Year 4 pupils about climate change.

Councillor Dore had been invited to listen to pupils read their work on environmental issues, following classroom discussions inspired by the book The Biggest Footprint.

The children came prepared with a series of probing questions on climate change, which they were eager to put to him.

“In short, I was grilled hard on this topic,” he said afterwards.

“Their teacher, Mr Woodhouse, warned me they’d used some emotive phrases, and he wasn’t wrong. It was a robust engagement from the youngsters and I enjoyed it immensely. Fair warning: if you invite me in, I will mess around and have fun!”

Their questions ranged from global environmental concerns to the recent flooding seen locally.

“You only have to look at our fair village — the effects of climate change are literally on our doorstep,” he said.

“The flooding on 2 February is testament to that. The pupils spoke with such passion and understanding. It’s incredibly encouraging to see this level of climate education happening at primary level.”

Before leaving, Councillor Dore was handed 29 letters, each written by a pupil, which he has promised to read, reflect on and reply to.

The visit also sparked a wave of nostalgia. It was the first time Councillor Dore had stepped inside Binstead Primary since leaving in the 1970s.

He said: “I was overwhelmed with emotion.

“I have incredibly fond memories of my time there. Walking into the hall and seeing the original ropes and climbing ladder still hanging from the ceiling — so many great times came flooding back.”

He also paid tribute to the headmaster of his era. “Ask anyone from my time about the late, great Mr Ball, and you’ll get one word: Legend.”

Councillor Dore said it was “with immense pride and interest” that he returned, and praised the current staff for the atmosphere they have created.

“Hats off to the inspiring staff for their fantastic work. It’s clear that new, happy memories are being made every day.”