Our Climate Action Plan
Climate Action and Sustainability at Hatfeild Primary
At Hatfeild Primary School, we believe that education goes beyond the classroom. Preparing children for the future means helping them understand and care for the world around them. That’s why sustainability and climate education sit at the heart of our school vision.
Our motto, “Think Globally, Act Locally, Learn Sustainably,” reflects our belief that every child can make a difference. Through our Climate Action Plan (2025–2028), we are working together as a community to reduce our environmental impact, build resilience to climate change, and inspire the next generation of global citizens.
What is our Climate Action Plan?
In line with the Department for Education’s national strategy, all schools must have a clear plan for climate action by 2025. Hatfeild Primary has gone further — developing a living, community-driven plan that will guide how we:
-
Reduce our carbon footprint through energy efficiency and renewable options.
-
Adapt our school environment to be more resilient to climate risks.
-
Protect and enhance biodiversity in our grounds.
-
Embed climate education and global citizenship across our curriculum.
This plan is not just a document — it is a commitment to action. Progress will be reviewed termly, celebrated annually, and refreshed every three years to ensure our approach remains ambitious and relevant.
How are we putting the plan into action?
Across our school, everyone has a part to play:
-
Pupils – leading campaigns like Switch-Off Week, acting as “Climate Champions,” and taking part in tree planting, gardening, and eco-projects.
-
Staff – weaving sustainability into lessons, modelling eco-friendly behaviours, and supporting initiatives such as active travel and waste reduction.
-
Families – joining in with uniform and book swaps, supporting Meat-Free Mondays, and helping children walk, cycle, or scoot to school.
-
Governors and Leadership – ensuring sustainability is at the centre of school decisions, from funding priorities to curriculum design.
Key Priorities for 2025–2028
-
Decarbonisation – installing LED lighting and sensors, exploring renewable energy options, and running pupil-led “Switch Off” campaigns.
-
Adaptation and Resilience – creating shaded spaces, harvesting rainwater, and planning for climate risks such as heat and flooding.
-
Biodiversity – joining the National Education Nature Park, developing a sensory garden and wildlife zone, and planting trees each year.
-
Climate Education – embedding sustainability across all subjects, tackling climate anxiety through PSHE and wellbeing support, and showcasing green career pathways.
-
Healthy, Sustainable Living – introducing more plant-based meals, composting food waste, growing produce in our allotments, and reducing single-use plastics.
-
Sustainable Travel and Air Quality – hosting Walk to School weeks, introducing Car-Free Fridays, and promoting clean air zones around the school.
Working Together
We know that the most powerful change happens when everyone works together. By listening to pupils, families, and staff — and partnering with local and national organisations — Hatfeild Primary is building a culture of sustainability that goes beyond the school gates.
Together, we will help our children develop the knowledge, skills, and values to shape a greener, fairer future.
