Climate change is one of the biggest challenges of our time. The UK government has pledged to reach net zero by 2050, with a 78% reduction in emissions by 2035. Education has a vital role to play in this, contributing 36% of public sector building emissions and shaping how future generations understand sustainability.
Schools are more than places of learning – they are catalysts for cultural change. Climate education gives students the tools to understand the causes and impacts of climate change and their role in being part of the solution.
What is the DfE’s Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy?
In recognition of this, the Department for Education (DfE) launched its Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy in 2022. It outlines how education will contribute to climate goals through decarbonisation, curriculum change, and climate adaptation.
However, the strategy can be unclear and hard to navigate. This guide breaks it down simply: What the strategy involves, who it applies for, why it matters, and how your school can take practical steps to get started.
Launched in 2022, the strategy sets out a roadmap to 2030 with the goal of making the UK education sector a global leader in sustainability. It focuses on four core aims:
To achieve these aims, the strategy introduces several key initiatives and responsibilities for schools and trusts:
Who Does the Strategy Apply to?
This strategy applies to all education settings in England:
While independent schools are not legally required to follow the strategy, as they fall outside of DfE governance and funding, they are strongly encouraged to align with its aims. Doing so helps them get ahead of future policy requirements, meet community expectations and enrich student learning.
The overall message is clear: every education provider has a role in driving sustainable change. Aligning with the strategy now gives your school direction and ensures you’re ready for likely mandatory reporting ahead.
Why the Strategy Matters for Schools
While independent schools are not legally required to follow the strategy, as they fall outside of DfE governance and funding, they are strongly encouraged to align with its aims. Doing so helps them get ahead of future policy requirements, meet community expectations and enrich student learning.
Sustainability is no longer optional – it’s now a core expectation for UK schools. From students and staff to parents and governors, communities want meaningful climate action.
The strategy offers a clear framework for reducing emissions, building climate resilience, and preparing students for the future. Starting now gives your school time to build a strong, realistic plan ahead of likely mandatory reporting.
And the benefits go beyond compliance. Schools that embed sustainability often see:
Taking action now helps your school support national climate goals and build a more future-ready learning environment. This isn’t just a government strategy, it’s an opportunity to lead and inspire lasting change.
The Challenges Schools Face
While the DfE strategy sets out a strong vision, schools face a number of real-world barriers that can make it difficult to turn that vision into action. Common barriers include:
To make tangible progress, schools need clearer direction, practical tools, and dedicated support.
How Schools Can Get Started
Starting your school’s sustainability journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. These practical steps will help you take meaningful climate action aligned with the DfE’s strategy:
How We Can Help
We offer practical, high-quality support to help schools design and deliver sustainability strategies and Climate Action Plans that go beyond DfE expectations.
Our approach is data-driven, realistic, and focused on real impact – saving staff time and simplifying complex guidance.
How We Support Schools:
- Source the right tools and resources for your setting
- Conduct baseline audits and track progress over time
- Deliver independently verified carbon footprints
- Develop a clear and achievable Climate Action Plan
- Write high-quality strategies with measurable actions and outcomes
- Project management, support implementation and ongoing reporting
- Offer tailored support, with flexible, budget-conscious options to suit your needs.
Our goal is to make sustainability easier to lead, easier to manage, and easier to achieve.
How We Can Help
If you’re looking for expert, practical support to build a high-impact Climate Action Plan or sustainability strategy, we’d love to help.
Get in touch or download our brochure here to find out more today.
abi@5dnetzero.co.uk
07881244632
