We inspire and help people to waste less and live more sustainably.
Enhanced Sustainable Schools
Our new Enhanced Sustainable Schools programme helps schools address the most important environmental and social challenges of our time.
Our approach
Historically, education programmes were based around one off school visits with assemblies and workshops. Research shows that one off or short term activities are not enough no generate progress in embedding pro-environmental behaviours and leadership that is required to enable a ‘sustainable’ school culture in teachers, other staff or students.
To address these issues our evolving approach to programme delivery is to move away from one off, or ‘bolt on’ work towards longer term projects which are ‘built in’ to the everyday operations of the institution.
We believe that programmes should be structured around supporting organisations to taking strategic, planned action which we facilitate and support but don’t own. In addition we believe they should be focused on developing positive attitudes and values, building leadership to enable ownership by a committed group as well as developing the broader wellbeing of those who participate.
Enhanced Sustainable School Programmes
Demonstrating success
Schools participating in the initial year of the Enhanced Schools Programme have documented an average increase in recycling of 7% alongside reductions in waste; whilst those focusing on energy have reduce energy consumption by up to 19%. Other benefits included improved wellbeing by those participating, improved leadership within the school and pro-environmental behaviour changes by students and teachers.
To find out more please read our Enhanced Sustainable Schools Pilot Report
Our expertise
The success of our programmes has established us as a national expert in environmental education; a reputation we continue to build on by developing new models of good practice and exemplars in teaching and learning.
We also aim to broaden the education sector’s understanding of the role of formal education within the global context of sustainable development.
And we combine research with the findings of our own practical work to build an evidence base for influencing policy and decision-making; from the school to national level.
More information
Schools Engagement Team Leader -
Luna.Zabalza@wastewatch.org.uk | 020 7549 0316
