Substainability
St Anne’s Catholic Primary School Climate Action Plan: 2025–28
What is a Climate Action Plan?
In April 2022, the Department for Education released a sustainability and climate change strategy for education. By 2025, all schools are expected to appoint a sustainability lead and develop a climate action plan. This plan guides schools in both implementing and teaching sustainability initiatives.
Our climate action plan has been created collaboratively by the headteacher, Assistant Head, One World Council lead, chair of governors, and the lead governor for sustainability.
Why Do We Want to Act?
At St Anne’s Catholic Primary School, our ethos is rooted in preparing pupils for a sustainable future while living out our faith values. Our guiding principle, “Global Awareness – Local Responsibility,” reflects our commitment to thinking globally and acting locally to care for God’s creation.
Respect and care for the environment are central to our school culture. Our students engage regularly with nature through outdoor learning and school grounds activities, fostering a connection to the world around them.
Embedding Sustainability in the Curriculum
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are integrated across our curriculum to give pupils a strong understanding of environmental responsibility:
• Local Environment & Biomes: Pupils explore local green spaces, rivers, and wildlife, connecting with SDG 15: Life on Land.
• Local Area Studies: Lessons on land use and community impact link to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
• Weather, Seasons & Rivers: Pupils learn about climate patterns and water preservation, supporting SDG 13: Climate Action and SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.
• Natural Disasters: Students examine environmental and human impacts, fostering resilience to climate change.
• Global Studies (Africa, Asia, Contrasting Localities): Pupils learn about sustainable practices in different countries, promoting awareness of global environmental diversity.
• Oceans & Continents: Topics include natural disasters, polar regions, and sustainable food practices.
• Environmental Champions: Pupils are inspired by figures such as David Attenborough, demonstrating the importance of protecting the planet.
While our curriculum already supports environmental learning, the escalating climate crisis and its impact on our pupils’ wellbeing mean we need to act further.
How We Will Deliver and Monitor the Plan
Our climate action plan focuses on four key areas:
1. Decarbonisation – Reducing energy use and emissions.
2. Adaptation and Resilience – Preparing the school and pupils for the effects of climate change.
3. Biodiversity – Protecting and enhancing our local environment.
4. Climate Education and Green Skills – Equipping pupils with knowledge and practical skills for a sustainable future.
Each area has clear objectives with specific actions for the academic year.
Community Involvement
The entire school community: pupils, staff, parents, and local partners will collaborate to deliver this plan. Listening to ideas, building relationships, and sharing resources will help us achieve our sustainability goals.
Governance and Accountability
The governing body will oversee implementation, with monitoring by the sustainability lead governor. Staff will be given time and resources to develop and lead initiatives.