In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth…And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good.
Genesis 1 1. 31
The climate is a common good, belonging to all and meant for all. At the global level, it is a complex system linked to many of the essential conditions for human life.
Pope Francis. Laudato Si (23) 2015
In our Trust, sustainability is an important part of who we are and how we live out our Catholic ethos. As part of Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust, we are committed to caring for our common home, promoting the common good and helping our pupils become responsible, compassionate stewards of God’s creation.
Inspired by scripture and Catholic social teaching, we recognise that caring for the world is a shared responsibility, both now and for future generations.
We take a whole ‑Trust approach to sustainability, embedding it into everyday life, learning and decision ‑making. Our Trust has designated Sustainability Champions and a link Trust Director, (Fr Shaun Purdy.) Each school has a Sustainability Lead and a Climate Action Plan, which is regularly reviewed by leaders and governors. Pupils, staff and families are encouraged to work together, knowing that small actions can make a meaningful difference.
To help us understand our impact and plan improvements, we use the Greener Schools Index, an environmental audit tool that supports us to identify strengths and priorities across energy, waste, water and sustainability education.
Our sustainability work includes:
Sustainability and climate education are woven through the curriculum and wider school life. Pupils learn about environmental issues, ethical choices and how they can care for the world around them. Outdoor learning, eco‑projects and pupil‑led initiatives help pupils develop confidence, wellbeing and a sense of responsibility.
We aim to use our buildings and resources responsibly by:
These actions support both environmental sustainability and the long term wellbeing of our community.
We value the support of parents, carers, parishes and local organisations in promoting sustainable living. Community projects, eco‑clubs and practical initiatives help pupils put their learning into action and see how sustainability connects to everyday life.
By working together, we aim to make steady progress towards a more sustainable future, ensuring that our Trust is a place where children can flourish in harmony with God’s creation.
The Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust is an exempt charity. It is a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales under company registration number 07890590. The registered office address is Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education HQ, Barmston Court, Turbine Business Park, Nissan Way, Washington, SR5 3NY.
