What are the benefits of a Whole School Approach?
Studies by the DfES suggest that those schools that embark on an energy and water reduction programme are more likely to show benefits over the longer term if they engage with all school users and encourage everyone to get involved. There are also other benefits, such as:
- Enhancing participation and communication across all school users
- Increasing environmental awareness throughout the school
- Motivating young people and empowering them to take action to reduce energy and water consumption.
How to get started - a Whole School Approach
First, select a couple of actions from the ‘getting started’ list on the programme matrix. We suggest you begin by finding out how much energy and water you are using (see Monitoring page) and then raising awareness of this amongst all school users (see Raising Awareness page).
Once these tasks are underway, you can attempt the rest of the ‘getting started’ actions, which once complete will allow you to download a Level 1 certificate. You can then start on the actions from the ‘Satisfactory’ and ‘Good’ list;
By keeping your activity level across all six areas, you ensure a balanced approach that will maximise the benefits and ensure longer term success.
Resources to help you with this activity
- Find out what others are doing by looking on the discussion forum. If you have a question or need further help, post a message on the discussion forum.
- Download your Scheme Progress Booklet and begin by completing some of the exercises, remember to login regularly to update your on-line activity record. This is the only way that you will be able to receive certificates and any other future benefits of the programme
- Read the rest of these sections for more information on what resources are available to help you progress.
Where to get further information
The Carbon Trust has produced a free guide, ‘A Whole School Approach’ (CTV037) to help schools effectively manage their energy and water consumption.
