Sustainability in Schools
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Engauge
Improving Sustainability in schools
Almost two thirds of West Sussex schools have taken part in a unique assessment called a ‘SusGauge®’ which measures how sustainable a school is. This is part of a project called ‘Engauge®’ which is helping our school children learn more about achieving a sustainable lifestyle.
Experts check out how well schools are performing in eight categories including saving energy and water, travel choices that avoid congestion and pollution, general health, and sensible eating.
The scores in each category are uniquely displayed in the form of a ‘SusGauge®’ flower, with each category achieved earning a petal. This means schools and pupils have an at-a-glance indicator to see how sustainable they are, plus an incentive to grow more petals! Weak areas can be pinpointed and targeted with advice and assistance from local experts so further petals can be added.
There are already some innovative schemes taking place in schools ranging from growing vegetables to using reclaimed rubber for new play equipment.
EGGSCITING
Shipley Primary (pictured left and right) has two hens called ‘Sage’ and ‘Onion’ and their eggs are regularly used in school meals with other local produce. The school has schemes to recycle paper, plastic and food scraps.
WHAT’S COOKING?
Students at Warden Park, Cuckfield, devise their own recipes using local produce for ‘Parkes’ the school’s café. The till is cashless with students using a payment card that also gives them discounts in some shops and on taxi fares.
web: www.wsfgl.westsussex.gov.uk/engauge
phone: 01243 777479
email: engauge@westsussex.gov.uk