Rationale for Our Climate Action Plan:

At Barrowford St Thomas, we believe that education is not only about academic achievement but also about preparing young people to be responsible global citizens.

Developing a Climate Action Plan allows us to take meaningful steps toward reducing our environmental impact, while inspiring students to lead by example in their communities. By embedding sustainability into our daily practices, we demonstrate our commitment to protecting the planet for future generations. This plan provides a clear framework for action—helping us to cut carbon emissions, conserve resources, and foster a culture of environmental stewardship across the school.

You can read the DfE’s guidance document here:

Sustainability leadership and climate action plans in education

What is climate change?

Climate change refers to the shift in the Earth’s usual weather conditions over many years.

Our world has been getting hotter due to things humans are doing, like burning huge amounts of fossil fuels, cutting down too many trees and over-farming crops and animals.

Climate change is the result of these actions and it is already putting humans, wildlife and the planet at risk.

However, it is not too late. By working together, everyone can help. Our planet needs us.

What can we do to help?

In the face of such a big problem, it is understandable that you might feel worried or like you cannot do anything about it.

Nevertheless, we can all take responsibility and work together to fix this!

Major changes need to come from governments and businesses, but scientists say that if we all make small changes to our lives too, together we can have an impact.

There are many ways you can get involved. Be creative and follow what interests you or where you think you can make a difference.

Speak to people about how you feel. Listen and share ideas with them.

Your actions will inspire others.

 Our Climate Action Plan covers goals within the four pillars.

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:

• Creating green spaces like gardens or green walls.
• Planting pollinator-friendly plants 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.
• 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:

• Preparing buildings for weather impacts, such as fixing leaking roofs.
• establishing rainwater harvesting,
• Developing a plan to respond to extreme weather events.

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.
• Including more plant-based options in the school lunch menu.

How are we putting the plan into action?

Everybody has a part to play-

Pupils – will lead campaigns and 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.

Resource Links:

National Education Nature Park

Let's Go Zero

Our Annual Climate Action Plan Document is below: