This study examines the impact of futures thinking classes on students’ futures literacy. Our qualitative and quantitative analyses indicate higher levels of futures literacy after the students took the futures thinking classes. We discuss the futures thinking classes, including the approach and pedagogical method used, and showcase some example activities. We conclude with advice for schools interested in implementing futures thinking classes to enhance their students’ futures literacy. •We show futures thinking classes lead to improved futures literacy. Both our qualitative and quantitative analysis show increased future consciousness, our measure of futures literacy.•We discuss a holistic approach to futures thinking classes that integrates education about the future, education of the future and education for the future.•The futures thinking classes have a ripple effect. Not only the futures literacy of our students increased but they also impacted their colleagues and their own students.•We detail future skills and the pedagogic approach to futures thinking classes.•We provide advice for other schools that are interested in implementing futures thinking classes to enhance their students’ futures literacy.