Our Commitment to a Greener Future

At Bletchingley Village Primary School, we believe that every child has a role to play in creating a more sustainable future. We are committed to reducing our environmental impact while equipping our pupils with the knowledge, skills and values they need to care for the world around them.

Our approach aligns with the Department for Education's Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy and focuses on four key areas:

🌱 Climate Education

We are committed to developing environmentally responsible citizens by embedding sustainability and climate education throughout our curriculum.

We do this by:

• Integrating climate and sustainability themes across a range of subjects.
• Providing opportunities for outdoor learning and environmental enquiry.
• Encouraging pupils to think critically about environmental challenges and possible solutions.
• Helping children understand how their actions can make a positive difference.
• Introducing pupils to the growing range of green careers that will help shape a sustainable future.

Sustainability Across the Curriculum

Every year group takes part in dedicated sustainability learning linked to our Sustainability and Climate Change Knowledge and Skills Progression. These lessons help pupils develop an age-appropriate understanding of environmental issues and positive action. Topics include:

EYFS
How can we welcome animals onto our school grounds?
Children learn how to help local wildlife by creating habitats and caring for the natural environment.

Key Stage 1
How can we look after a garden?
How can our journey to school help the environment?
Pupils explore sustainable gardening and consider environmentally friendly ways to travel. [LTP Geogra...hy EYFS-Y6 | Word]

Lower Key Stage 2
How can we use plastic more sustainably?
Children learn about the waste reduction hierarchy of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle and apply it to single-use plastic use.

Year 4
How sustainable is our school?
Pupils conduct audits of school resource use and develop action plans for improvement. [LTP Geogra...hy EYFS-Y6 | Word]

Upper Key Stage 2
What is fast fashion and why is it a problem?
Children investigate the environmental and social impact of clothing production and explore more sustainable choices.

Year 6
What actions can we take to make the world more sustainable?
Pupils learn about individuals and organisations making positive environmental change and consider how they can contribute. [LTP Geogra...hy EYFS-Y6 | Word]

♻️Working Towards Net Zero

We recognise the importance of reducing our carbon footprint and making sustainable choices across the school.

We are:

• Monitoring and reducing energy consumption.
• Reviewing procurement practices and promoting sustainable purchasing.
• Implementing energy-saving measures across the school site.
• Developing a comprehensive Climate Action Plan.
• Identifying ways to reduce waste and use resources more efficiently.

🌿 Creating a Better Environment

We want our school to be a place where both people and nature can thrive.

We are:

• Enhancing our grounds to encourage wildlife and biodiversity.
• Promoting recycling and reducing waste wherever possible.
• Working towards reducing single-use plastics.
• Encouraging active and sustainable travel.
• Exploring ways to reduce food waste and improve sustainability within school catering.
• Expanding opportunities for outdoor learning and Forest School experiences. [SIP and SE...2024 2025 | Word]

🤝 Working Together

Creating a sustainable future is a shared responsibility. We believe the greatest impact comes when schools, families and communities work together.

We welcome ideas and support from:

• Pupils
• Parents and carers
• Staff
• Governors
• Local community groups and partners

By working together, we can make meaningful changes that benefit both our local environment and the wider world.

Looking Ahead

Sustainability is an ongoing journey. As a school, we are committed to continually reviewing and improving our environmental practices while empowering our pupils to become informed, responsible and active citizens who can contribute positively to a sustainable future.

If you'd like to know more about our sustainability work, please contact the school office.