NCB is to continue its groundbreaking work on promoting sustainable lifestyles in schools despite the disappointing news that the Government will not be continuing to invest in a Sustainable Schools Strategy.

Jo Butcher, Assistant Director, Well-Being at NCB comments, ‘Evidence shows that learning how to live a life that is good for both the planet, the person and for communities, is essential to children and young people’s achievement and well-being.  NCB’s One Step One World Programme has shown that it is possible for children and young people to take responsibility for their own learning and deliver social and environmental improvements for schools and communities. This isn’t a ‘nice to do’ issue. The evidence shows that learning about sustainable living makes school relevant for children and in turn, improves standards and achievement. Despite the reduced focus through a formal strategy now, NCB will continue to work in partnership with schools and other organisations in realising a sustainable future with our children and young people.’  

Jo concludes, ‘Every government department has a commitment to reduce their carbon emissions and address wider sustainability issues, including across the key bodies within their responsibilities. It is essential that we establish how the cutting of the Government’s Sustainable Schools Strategy will impact on their ability to achieve these commitments. Schools have been cut adrift and will need urgent help to maintain the momentum around cost efficiencies whilst providing effective and high quality education for their pupils. A sustainable lifestyles approach can help schools achieve this. ’