Climate Action Plan
Rationale
At Bleak Hill Primary School, we believe that small actions can lead to big changes and we are excited to take steps towards a greener, more sustainable future. Our Climate Action Plan is all about creating a positive impact on the environment whilst inspiring our pupils, staff and families to work together for a cleaner, healthier world.
From reducing waste to saving energy, we are committed to making eco-friendly choices that will benefit not only our school; but the community around us. By embracing these efforts, we hope to encourage everyone at Bleak Hill to become Eco-Warriors and help to build a brighter, more sustainable future.
What is climate change?
Climate change is causing our planet to get warmer. This is happening because human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and cutting down trees, release gases that trap heat in the atmosphere.
Climate change affects people, animals, and nature. The good news is that we can all help. By working together and making small changes, we can help protect our planet for the future.
What can we do to help?
Climate change is a big challenge, but we can all help. Small actions, when lots of people do them, can make a big difference. Through our Climate Action Plan, we will work together to care for our environment and help protect our planet for the future.
What areas does our Climate Action Plan cover?
The four pillars of a climate action plan for primary schools are:
Biodiversity and nature: efforts to protect and enhance nature and wildlife within the setting and its surroundings
Goal: To protect and enhance nature on and around the school site.
School actions:
Regular sessions in the Woodland area
Creating an outdoor planting area in the EYFS
Planting pollinator-friendly plants to support wildlife
Installing bird boxes, bug hotels and log piles in outdoor spaces to support wildlife
Climate education and green skills: how learners are supported to understand climate change, sustainability, and develop relevant skills
Goal: To ensure students understand climate change and develop the skills needed for the future.
School actions:
Teaching about climate change and sustainability across the curriculum
Engaging students in practical activities like monitoring wildlife
Encouraging a connection with nature through hands-on experiences
Use outdoor spaces to support pupil and staff well-being
Empowering children to feel they can be a force for good and make a difference
Adaptation and resilience: how the setting is preparing for and responding to the impacts of climate change
Goal: To make the school ready for climate change impacts like extreme weather.
School actions:
Improve energy management and monitoring
Developing a Remote Learning Plan to respond to extreme weather events and to ensure digital readiness for remote learning if needed
Preparing buildings for weather impacts, such as fixing leaking roofs
Decarbonisation and net zero: actions to measure and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, working towards net zero
Goal: To reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the school.
School actions:
Improving energy efficiency in buildings, such as through LED lighting.
Promoting sustainable travel like walking or cycling to school.
Reducing waste and increasing recycling.
Reduce the school's digital carbon footprint
Promote eco-uniform and low impact home behaviours
Reduce classroom consumables and waste from procurement
Make school meals more sustainable e.g. by including more plant-based options in the school lunch menu.
How are we putting our plan into action?
Everybody has a part to play!
Pupils – Our Eco-Warriors will will lead campaigns and encourage others to take part in gardening and eco activities.
Staff – Weaving sustainability into lessons. Modelling eco friendly behaviours and supporting initiatives such as active travel and waste reduction.
Families – Join in with uniform, book and toys swaps and by helping children walk, cycle or scoot to school.
Governors and Leadership – Ensure sustainability is at the centre of schools decisions.
Please support us in making a difference in our school community!
Files to Download
You can read the DfE Guidance here: Sustainability leadership and climate action plans in education - GOV.UK