Teach-Primary-Issue-19.7

meant an increase in physical activity, meaning happier, healthier children. Turning waste into play The PlayPod is more than just a play resource, too. By repurposing materials that would otherwise end up in landfill, the initiative reduces waste and promotes a circular economy. Items such as carpet tiles, foam and surplus industrial components are given a second life as tools for play. This approach diverts waste from disposal while educating children about the value of reuse and recycling in a tangible, hands-on way. This ethos aligns perfectly with our village school’s broader sustainability goals, which include reducing our environmental footprint and embedding eco-conscious values into the everyday curriculum. For this initiative to thrive, we need a steady stream of materials, as things like cardboard do get used up over time. Whilst Children’s Scrapstore provides regular top-ups, we’re keen to strengthen sustainability efforts by sourcing additional materials locally, not only improving our eco credentials, but bolstering ties with the local community as well. The idea is that we’ll launch a ‘Waste to Play’ campaign, inviting local businesses to donate clean, safe surplus materials. Many companies throw away items that are perfect for play and there’s huge potential in diverting this waste to the playground. By partnering with businesses like these, we’re hoping to reduce landfill waste by diverting reusable materials; foster a sense of shared responsibility for sustainability throughout our school and local community; and provide businesses with a positive social impact story, which will enhance their corporate social responsibility (CSR) profile. It’s a win-win. We are all acutely aware of the challenges our planet faces, but as school leaders, it can be overwhelming thinking about where to start. The good news is that schools have a unique opportunity to model sustainable practices, inspire children, and ripple change out into families and communities. The even better news is that it doesn’t have to be complicated. When thinking about sustainability, it’s tempting to dive in with grand plans; but the most effective changes are often small and manageable. Begin with one area of focus – energy, waste, or food – and build from there. Small changes add up, and they’re easier for staff and pupils to embed into everyday routines. Here are some ideas... RETHINK RESOURCES Waste is often the most visible starting point. Could your school reduce single-use plastics in the canteen? Many suppliers are now open to conversations about more sustainable packaging and practices, and engaging children in waste audits, such as Trash Mobs ( tinyurl.com/tp-TrashMob ) can also be powerful. Pupils love counting crisp packets, and it’s a great bit of citizen science, too! It sparks ownership and makes sustainability real rather than abstract. Quick win: start with lunchtime – reducing packaging or swapping to reusable cutlery can make an immediate difference. EMPOWER PUPILS TO LEAD Sustainability works best when children feel part of the journey. Organisations like the Ministry of Eco Education ( ministryofeco. org ) offer structured ways for pupils to lead campaigns, resources to support teaching, and opportunities to take meaningful action. From energy monitors in classrooms to litter picks in the playground, giving children responsibility builds not only awareness but confidence, too. Pupil power: give children visible roles – eco-monitors, assembly speakers, or campaign leaders. MAKE IT REAL Link curriculum to sustainability wherever possible. Whether it’s a science lesson on biodiversity, geography work on global responsibility, or art projects using recycled materials, sustainability can be woven into daily teaching. For those near the coast or rivers, outdoor learning can be a brilliant way to connect children with nature and nurture a sense of stewardship. CELEBRATE PROGRESS Sometimes schools worry they’re not ‘doing enough’. But progress matters more than perfection. Share updates in assemblies, newsletters, or displays so pupils can see the difference their actions make. Recognising effort builds momentum – and children often take those habits home. LOOK OUTWARDS FOR SUPPORT There are excellent organisations offering free resources, toolkits, and inspiration. Let’s Go Zero is a great one-stop shop, signposting schools to a wide range of organisations that can support them in becoming more sustainable, and you can join Plastic Free Schools for free ( tinyurl.com/tp-PFS ) , to gain access to a multitude of helpful resources. Big picture: every school is now expected to have a Climate Action Plan. Building sustainability into daily routines helps make real progress towards this. Sustainability is not a ‘nice-to-have’; it’s a responsibility. With small steps, pupil leadership, and a willingness to rethink how we do things, schools can become powerful forces for change. Lara Jeffries is education manager at Surfers Against Sewage and a former headteacher. sas.org.uk/education 46 | www.teachwire.net Small steps, big gains