DfE launches digital support hub to drive sustainability efforts in education

The Department for Education (DfE) has released a new digital support hub aimed at supporting the education sector to achieve its green ambitions. 

The free online hub, Sustainability Support for Education, hopes to inspire and equip those working in education settings in England to put in place key sustainability initiatives. It allows nurseries, schools, colleges and universities to determine their environmental priorities and direct them to resources to support the implementation of these.  

The service directs users to information and support that is relevant and achievable, based on their setting's unique characteristics and where they are in their sustainability journey. This includes resources and guidance on identifying priorities, what educational settings need to get started and how they can develop their practice. Topics covered include decarbonisation, biodiversity, adaptation and climate education.

TPXimpact, with the support of United Learning and Blue Marble, have been commissioned by the DfE to create and maintain the online hub. Drawing on years of sector expertise, established networks and technical capability, the hub was built through extensive engagement with the sector and the experience of educators, ensuring users’ needs would be met.

All education settings are required to have a climate action plan in place by 2025, and the Sustainability Support for Education is part of a set of projects commissioned by the DfE to help them meet these goals. The Department’s projects focus on four key areas, including excellence in education and skills for the changing world; Net Zero; resilience to climate change; and a better environment for future generations.

Lizzie Insall, Senior Partner - Major Projects at TPXimpact, said:

“The climate crisis is something that all of us TPXimpact are incredibly passionate about, and being able to support DfE in developing a digital support hub aimed at doing just that has been a real privilege. 

“Thanks to working with a wide range of stakeholders, from teachers to parents, and taking a user first approach, we believe that Sustainability Support for Education will quickly become a vital tool for all education settings as they continue their push to help us achieve a more sustainable world for people, places and the planet.” 

The hub can be found at: https://www.sustainabilitysupportforeducation.org.uk/.