Why are schools important to climate action in Brent?
Schools have an important role in Brent’s Climate Emergency Strategy. Through effective teaching and learning about the climate emergency, and acting as climate champions, schools have the ability to empower young people and their communities to make informed, sustainable choices that benefit the climate and environment. This includes reducing consumption and waste, and taking active or green and increase biodiversity across the borough.
Schools in Brent’s Green Neighbourhoods can also contribute to the council’s efforts to develop eco-friendly areas, which have reduced carbon emissions and waste to create a healthier place to live, work and visit.
How is Brent working with schools on the climate emergency?
Brent Council currently offers a range of support for schools, such as supporting with the development of their own sustainable travel plans, sharing best practice, and signposting funding opportunities.
Brent Council is currently developing a wider offer for schools to engage in climate action. This will focus on developing a Schools Climate Action Plan as a framework to support schools in embedding sustainability and climate action across all areas of school life. The plan will utilise key principles from the Brent Climate Emergency Strategy 2021-30, the Whole School Approach, and the DfE Strategy for Sustainability and Education.
What is the Whole School Approach?
Brent encourages schools to embed sustainability and climate action across all areas of school life. The Whole School Approach provides a framework for schools to identify successes and priorities across different areas, such as decarbonising the school site, embedding sustainability and climate education across the curriculum, increasing recycling provision, and making changes to the canteen menu.
Who can I contact for support?
Schools that would like to access support from the council can contact climate.emergency@brent.gov.uk