Environment
At Wickersley Partnership Trust, we take pride in our commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. As an educational institution, we recognise the profound impact our operations can have on the environment, and we are dedicated to fostering a culture of responsibility and awareness. Our commitment extends beyond the classroom, as we strive to minimise our ecological footprint, promote conservation efforts, and contribute to a healthier planet for current and future generations.
Solar PV Installation Project
As part of our commitment to sustainability, we are excited to begin the installation of solar PV panels across all 13 of our schools.
We have secured £100,000 in grant funding from the North East & Yorkshire Net Zero Hub to help finance Phase One of the project, which is due to be completed by the end of March 2024.
Phase One will be carried out by Genfit and will see solar panels installed at six primary schools, followed by an additional three schools in phase two. This initiative not only reduces our reliance on conventional energy sources but also positions us as leaders in sustainable education. This significant reduction in environmental impact aligns with the Trust’s commitment to fostering a greener and more sustainable future for its schools.
We aim to have solar PV panels installed at all remaining sites within the next few years.
The solar panels are estimated to generate around 270 MWh of electricity annually – significantly reducing our schools’ CO2 emissions by approximately 53.68 metric tons per year.
Lee Rushforth, Senior Premises Manager at Wickersley Partnership Trust, said: “This is a great project for the Trust to be involved in to reduce each school’s energy consumption. The reduction will be equivalent to planting 2465 trees every year.
“We’re looking forward to getting started with Phase One.”
LED Lighting Upgrades
In the Trust’s ongoing pursuit of energy efficiency, a significant milestone has been achieved through the successful completion of state-of-the-art LED lighting installations at nine out of our thirteen schools.
This initiative not only enhances overall sustainability but also yields tangible results in terms of energy conservation. The LED lighting installation has notably reduced our carbon footprint by 65 tonnes of CO2, reflecting the Trust’s dedication to fostering a brighter and more environmentally conscious future for its schools.
Air Source Heat Pump
Embracing innovative technologies, we’ve implemented an air source heat pump at the Trust’s swimming pool. This environmentally friendly heating solution harnesses the heat from the air, ensuring energy-efficient and sustainable pool operations. It’s a testament to our commitment to creating eco-friendly spaces for both learning and recreation.
Why These Projects Matter
Environmental Impact: Each project contributes to our overarching goal of minimising our environmental impact, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting a more sustainable future for generations to come.
Cost Efficiency: Beyond their environmental benefits, these initiatives are integral to our long-term cost efficiency strategies. Energy-efficient solutions not only save resources but also contribute to financial sustainability, allowing us to redirect resources where they matter most – the education of our students.
Educational Opportunities: These projects provide unique learning opportunities for our students. Through real-world examples, we aim to instil values of environmental stewardship, energy conservation, and the importance of sustainable practices in the minds of our future leaders.
