Sustainability and Environmental Action Strategy

Our Commitment

Cedar Mount Academy is committed to taking meaningful action to address environmental and climate challenges. As a school serving the Gorton community, we recognise our responsibility to reduce our environmental impact, support the wellbeing of our students and staff, and contribute positively to Manchester’s ambition to be a leading green city.

This strategy has been shaped by local priorities. It reflects our commitment to building a culture of care for ourselves, for others and for the environment, both locally and globally.

Sustainability is a shared responsibility across the whole academy community. Through education and practical action, we will work together to protect and enhance our environment for current and future generations.

Aims of the Strategy

The aims of Cedar Mount Academy’s Sustainability and Environmental Action Strategy are to:

      1.    Improve understanding of environmental and sustainability issues across the school community, enabling informed and responsible decision making.

      2.    Measure and monitor the environmental impact of the academy’s operations and activities, and set targets to reduce negative impacts and associated costs.

      3.    Empower students and staff to take an active role in environmental leadership and sustainability initiatives.

      4.    Encourage positive behaviour change and increase participation in environmental action within school and the wider community.

Leadership and Whole School Responsibility

Sustainability is the responsibility of all members of the Cedar Mount Academy community. Leadership for this strategy will be supported through:

      •     A designated senior leader with responsibility for sustainability

      •     A student leadership group

      •     Staff representation within sustainability planning

      •     Regular reporting to senior leaders and governors

      •     Integration of sustainability into wider, strategic school improvement planning

The C.E.D.A.R. Framework

Cedar Mount Academy’s sustainability work is guided by the C.E.D.A.R. Framework, which reflects our school identity and values.

C – Curriculum and Culture

We will embed sustainability into teaching, learning and everyday school culture to build strong environmental understanding and responsibility.

Key priorities include:

      •     Integrating sustainability and environmental themes across relevant curriculum areas

      •     Supporting staff to develop confidence and expertise in sustainability education

      •     Promoting sustainability as a shared school value

      •     Using assemblies, Mount Mastery, enrichment and themed events to raise awareness

      •     Supporting student leadership and voice in environmental action

      •     Sharing sustainability learning and initiatives with families and the wider community

E – Energy and Emissions

We will work to reduce energy consumption and lower the academy’s carbon footprint.

Key priorities include:

      •     Monitoring gas, electricity and water usage to identify trends and opportunities

      •     Improving energy efficiency across buildings, lighting and equipment

      •     Promoting energy saving behaviours in classrooms, offices and shared spaces

      •     Exploring low carbon and renewable energy options where appropriate

      •     Supporting long term planning through our digital transformation model 

D – Disposal and Resources

We will reduce waste and promote responsible use of materials and resources.

Key priorities include:

      •     Reducing the overall volume of waste produced

      •     Increasing recycling across the academy site

      •     Promoting reuse of equipment and learning materials

      •     Encouraging responsible use of consumables

      •     Working with contractors and partners to improve waste management practices

A – Air, Access and Active Travel

We will promote sustainable travel and support improvements in air quality and healthy travel choices.

Key priorities include:

      •     Encouraging walking, cycling, public transport and car sharing

      •     Promoting safe and active travel for students and staff

      •     Supporting the use of secure cycle storage and facilities

      •     Reviewing and updating the School Travel Plan regularly

      •     Exploring lower emission transport options for school vehicles over time

R – Rewilding and School Environment

We will enhance the school environment to support biodiversity, wellbeing and outdoor learning.

Key priorities include:

      •     Maintaining clean, welcoming and well cared for outdoor spaces

      •     Increasing planting and green areas across the site

      •     Supporting habitats and biodiversity

      •     Promoting environmental volunteering among students and staff

      •     Using outdoor spaces to support curriculum learning and wellbeing

Planning and Procurement

Sustainability will be embedded into future planning, development and purchasing decisions.

Key priorities include:

      •     Considering environmental impact in all capital and refurbishment projects

      •     Embedding sustainability within procurement policies and processes, in collaboration with Bright Futures Education Trust

      •     Prioritising durable, energy efficient and environmentally responsible products

      •     Supporting local and ethical suppliers where possible

      •     Aligning future building and development work with low carbon principles

Student and Staff Leadership

Student voice and staff engagement are central to the success of this strategy. Cedar Mount Academy will continue to support student leadership and provide opportunities for staff to contribute ideas and lead initiatives.

Monitoring, Reporting and Review

An annual review will be undertaken, with updates shared with senior leaders, governors, and the wider school community.

The strategy will be updated periodically to reflect emerging best practice, local priorities, and the evolving needs of the academy.