What does Climate and Sustainability Action Planning mean for us?

In April 2022, the Department for Education released a sustainability and climate change strategy specifically for education. By 2025, all education settings are expected to appoint a sustainability lead and develop a climate action plan. This plan will guide schools in both implementing and educating about various sustainability initiatives.

Our climate action plan has been created collaboratively by the headteacher, Eco lead (Mr A), the Christian distinctiveness lead (Mrs Neville), Our Eco team, and our Let’s Go Zero liaison.

Our ethos is deeply rooted in preparing our pupils for a sustainable future while celebrating our local heritage. The core belief, “Global Awareness - Local Responsibility,” captures our commitment to thinking globally and acting locally to address the climate crisis. We strive to equip our students with the understanding and tools to make a positive impact on the world.

Respect and care for the environment have always been integral to our school culture. We are fortunate to be surrounded by beautiful green spaces on dartmoor, wonderful beaches are close by, and through our outdoor wild woodland learning and Forest School days, pupils regularly engage with and appreciate the natural world.

Building knowledge, understanding and action planning for change is  woven throughout our curriculum, ensuring that our pupils develop a comprehensive understanding of environmental responsibility.

How will we deliver this climate action plan and monitor progress?

Our climate action plan will focus on four key areas: decarbonisation, adaptation and resilience, biodiversity, and climate education and green skills. Each of these areas will have clear objectives, with specific actions outlined for the current academic year.

Our entire school community – pupils, staff, parent groups, and the wider local community – will work collaboratively to bring this plan to life. Engaging with everyone, listening to their ideas, and involving them in our Eco initiatives is crucial. We will continue to build on existing relationships and forge new partnerships, leveraging shared resources and support to help meet our sustainability goals.

The delivery of our climate action plan will be regularly monitored and discussed with our LGZ ambassador. To ensure the plan is implemented effectively, we will provide staff with the necessary time and resources to develop and carry out the actions. Specific members of staff will be identified as leads for key elements of the plan.

This overarching climate action plan will be reviewed and updated each year to reflect progress and evolving needs. We will set new goals and assess our progress, ensuring we are on track to meet our sustainability targets. Regular termly reviews will help keep us focused and accountable as we work towards our long-term vision.