Sustainability

‘It’s inspiring to see young people so dedicated to environmental causes, especially when they have put in the effort over such a long period. The tree planting event is such another brilliant initiative and it  is so rewarding to see them take such ownership of their climate action plan and remain firmly focused on creating a more sustainable future.’ Mr Prosser, Headteacher

We believe that looking after our environment is everyone’s responsibility. Guided by our school values acting responsibly, with courage and integrity: we are working hard to become a more sustainable school and to help our students grow into thoughtful global citizens.

In May 2024, we introduced a 7-step sustainability plan which gives structure and purpose to the brilliant work of our student Eco-Club. This framework supports our journey towards achieving the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag Award, which celebrates student-led environmental action.

It is a great way to recognise the efforts of our young people and gives them the confidence and motivation to keep making a difference. It also shows our wider community that The Downs is a forward-thinking school, where environmental awareness and responsibility are part of everyday life.

  

Working towards a more sustainable School, learning how to be a global citizen. 

This year, our Eco-Club is focusing on three main areas:

• Litter – organising regular litter picks and encouraging everyone to take pride in our school environment.
• Waste – improving recycling facilities and reducing single-use plastics.
• School Grounds – creating a pond in the therapy garden, and clearing the wild garden to encourage more wildlife and biodiversity.

We are proud to have received the Green Flag Award for two years running, a real testament to the commitment of our students and staff.

Listening to Student and Staff Voices

We know that the most powerful ideas often come from those who care deeply and have first-hand experience. Our Eco-Club ran a student survey in February 2024 focusing on single-use plastics and our carbon footprint. Staff have also shared their views in a recent survey. The feedback has helped shape our next steps and priorities.

These activities reflect national research which shows that the majority of young people want their schools to do more for the environment. According to the SOS-UK report, over 80% of pupils feel schools should be helping them take action on sustainability.

What We’re Already Doing at TDS

We’ve made great progress in many areas already, and continue to build on that momentum every term. Some of the actions already in place across the school include:

• Green Flag Award - Eco Schools Green Flag Award for Second Year! - News & Headteacher Blogs - The Downs School
• Using local food suppliers wherever possible, especially those based in Berkshire
• Working with our Business Manager to prioritise sustainable procurement
• Offering vegetarian and vegan food days in the school Diner and having meat-free options every day
• Planting 200 tree saplings on site - Eco Club Planted 200 Trees - News & Headteacher Blogs - The Downs School
• Printing only when necessary and switching to digital-first communication (emails, TEAMS)
• Turning off lights when rooms are not in use, and using motion-activated lighting
• Keeping fresh air flowing through classrooms whenever the temperature allows
• Marking Earth Day each year with themed activities
• Offsetting emissions from school trips involving flights by planting trees
• Choosing trip locations and methods of travel with the environment in mind. Year 7 visit Kew Gardens each year. Borneo Expedition July 2024 - News & Headteacher Blogs - The Downs School
• Meeting with local sustainable shops, cafés and events to understand how we can support them and promote their work
• Uniform – Second hand stalls at all our events. Pop up shop onsite.
• Covered and secure bike rack + Bike to Work Scheme for staff
• Providing a well being garden that uses organic gardening supplies and techniques
• We have created rewilding areas across the grounds which are thriving
• Two Eco charging points for staff cars
• Bike to work scheme
• Green waste bins throughout the school
• Attending conferences: The Downs School attends Climate Conference - News & Headteacher Blogs - The Downs School
• Understanding enrivonmental activism including workshops with @Home - Bite Back

These efforts show that sustainability isn’t just a project,  it’s becoming a daily part of life.

Linking with Local and National Sustainability Goals

Newbury Town Council’s Environmental Strategy

Our work closely aligns with Newbury Town Council’s 2024–2028 strategy, which puts the climate emergency and sustainable living at the heart of local action. The council aims to cut carbon emissions, improve green spaces, and support greener transport options , all of which connect closely to our school’s own goals.

What the Government is Asking Schools to Do

Nationally, the Department for Education is encouraging all schools to:

• Have a named sustainability lead – Mrs Hicks
• Develop and share a climate action plan by 2025 – Our ECO Club mission
• Include sustainability across the curriculum – Assemblies, classes and events
• Support student-led initiatives and prepare students for a green future

We’re already making strong progress in these areas and will continue to work in line with this national direction.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

What more could we do? Some of our next ideas include:

• Hosting themed Eco Weeks and conservation-focused trips
• Offering environmental GCSE and A-Level options in the future
• Encouraging form groups to adopt garden beds or trees

By working together,  students, staff, families and the wider community can continue to make a real difference. Sustainability at The Downs School.

‘Our Eco Club students have worked so hard over the past three years, and their passion and dedication have helped us achieve the Eco Schools Green Flag two years running. This tree-planting event is a fantastic opportunity for them to see their efforts come to life while contributing to our school’s climate action plan. It’s about more than planting trees—it’s about fostering a sense of stewardship and showing our students that they can make a real difference for the environment." Mrs Hicks, Head of Geography & Sustainability Lead