Climate action guide for schools

They shape young people’s understanding of the world and can lead the way in making practical changes that benefit pupils, staff and communities.    The Council is working closely with schools to reduce emissions, adapt to new weather patterns and support climate learning. 

What the Council is doing 

The Council is supporting schools to become more energy efficient and climate resilient. This includes:

• retrofitting school buildings to improve insulation and cut energy costs 
• installing renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, on school sites 
• expanding School Streets to make journeys safer and cleaner for pupils 
• supporting curriculum development and engagement through the Schools Climate Network 
• helping schools access funding for energy and environmental projects 

These actions improve learning environments, reduce running costs and set a strong example for future generations.

Practical steps for schools

Schools can take a range of actions to reduce their environmental impact and involve pupils in meaningful learning.

Buildings and energy

• carry out simple energy audits to identify where improvements can be made
• switch to LED lighting and install timers or motion sensors to reduce energy use
• upgrade heating systems and insulate roofs and walls to keep classrooms comfortable and efficient 
• explore installing solar panels to generate clean energy on-site 
• turn off equipment and lights when not in use, especially during holidays 
• learn how to adapt to the heat 
• use tools such as Energy Sparks to monitor energy usage

Travel and transport

• encourage walking, cycling and scooting through School Streets and travel plans
• work with parents and carers to reduce car use on the school run
• promote public transport options for older students and staff
• offer Bikeability to pupils and Learn to Ride sessions for staff 

Curriculum and engagement

• join the Schools Climate Network to connect with other schools and share ideas
• include climate and sustainability topics across subjects, not just science or geography
• run pupil-led projects such as energy monitoring, tree planting or waste reduction campaigns
• celebrate pupil achievements to build a culture of action and pride 

Grounds and nature

• plant trees or shrubs to provide shade and improve biodiversity 
• create rain gardens or use water butts to manage rainfall sustainably 
• start or support a school garden to teach about food and nature

Support and funding

• schools can access funding and guidance through Council programmes and external schemes
• the Schools Climate Network provides regular events, resources and opportunities for collaboration
• to get involved or join the Schools Climate Network, contact climate@lewisham.gov.uk

Working together

Schools across Lewisham are already leading by example. From retrofitting classrooms to planting trees and running pupil-led projects, schools are showing what is possible. 

By taking action, schools help protect the environment, reduce costs and inspire young people to build a more sustainable future.

Case Study: Dalmain School

Dalmain Primary is the oldest school in Lewisham. It is also the first to move away from fossil fuels by using solar panels and a heat pump.   

Dalmain worked with the Council and local charity Retrofit Action for Tomorrow to replace the gas boiler with a heat pump, put in new radiators, and insulation. The garden also features clever planters, fed by rainwater from their gutters, and which help to protect against flooding.    

Headteacher Ms Eisele and her team know that well-insulated, energy efficient buildings make children more comfortable and ready to learn. They are committed to both future proofing their buildings and ensuring a better future for children.   

Pupils at Dalmain learn about positive climate action by experiencing it every day in their classrooms. Children have been involved in each step of the improvements, with RAFT running sessions on retrofitting, how to save energy at school, and in their homes. Lessons are regularly taken in the wildlife garden, and there is a yearly Eco Week, with a toy swap and plant-based lunches.  

South East London Community Energy help to create clean and affordable energy, which is owned by residents, rather than big companies. Using the Community Energy Fund, parents at Dalmain worked with SELCE to install solar panels on the school’s roof. This has cut their energy bills, saving them tens of thousands of pounds to instead spend on education.