Sustainability and climate change are a growing concern and, at St Matthew's, it involves reducing our carbon footprint through energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable practices. In order to foster pupil stewardship and prepare them for green careers, it also includes integrating environmental education. 

At St Matthew's we have several initiatives including: installing renewable energy systems, implementing recycling and composting programs, creating green spaces, promoting walking and cycling, and teaching students practical skills through activities like school gardening and upcycling. 

What do we believe?

The Church of England’s vision of education is deeply Christian, with Jesus' promise of 'life in all its fullness' at its heart. Our vision, alongside the Church of England, is for the common good of the whole community.

• Educating for wisdom, knowledge and skills
• Educating for hope and aspiration
• Educating for community and living well together
• Educating for dignity and respect

This goes hand in hand with our sustainability focus at St Matthew's and, as a Christian school, we encourage our children to:

• Be responsible for themselves and others
• Respect life in all its forms
• Be courageous to stand up for what they believe in
• Love one another and the world in which they live

Therefore, our Climate Action Plan for 2025 (and beyond) is bound by these values as well as our common purpose to ensure all those within our school community let their light shine, through the promotion and protection of God’s World.

What is a Climate Action Plan?

In April 2022, the Department for Education released a sustainability and climate change strategy specifically for education. By 2025, all education settings are expected to appoint a sustainability lead and develop a climate action plan. This plan will guide schools in both implementing and educating about various sustainability initiatives.

Our climate action plan has been created collaboratively by the headteacher, the sustainability lead, the business manager and the site manager.