Empowering the next generation - inside the Hackney Sustainability Education Framework

Shaping a sustainable future

Developed in close collaboration with local schools, the Hackney Sustainability Education Framework represents Hackney’s long-term commitment to sustainability and climate action. Rather than treating environmental education as a one-off topic, the framework advocates for a whole-school approach where sustainability becomes a lived value.

The framework provides educators with creative, action-oriented, and problem-solving strategies, complete with case studies and resources from schools already leading the way.

Rooted in the Climate Education Toolkit, the framework maps sustainability across the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and every subject in the National Curriculum for Key Stages 1 and 2. 

The aim is to highlight opportunities and foci for teaching and learning across the curriculum linked to the three big objectives:

1. 🌿Biodiversity - understanding that biodiversity is the variety of living things on Earth, ranging from tiny insects and plants to large animals and the different habitats they depend on
2. ♻️ Living sustainably - understanding about managing natural resources sustainably
3. 🌍 Climate change - understanding natural and enhanced greenhouse effect, and the adaptations and mitigations that can be taken

For further guidance on implementing the framework or developing your school's Climate Action Plan, reach out to the Hackney Leadership and Management Advisers or the Climate Education Officer.

What young people think

"If we learn about sustainability and pollution, we will eventually know what to do and from a young age we can help the planet.” 
Year 6 pupil
 

"It is so important that children understand how to protect our world. We must stop throwing things away and care more for the earth. The resources will not last forever unless we do things now.” 
Year 3 pupil

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