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Issue 4 - February 2026
Built for Change breaks ground
The Built for Change grant is funding climate adaptation projects at 12 pilot education settings across Sheffield, and over February half term the first three came to life. Watercliffe Meadow, Arbourthorne and Lower Meadow primary schools have installed a range of measures to lower classroom temperatures, reduce water use and increase biodiversity across their sites. The projects are diverse, including an outdoor classroom, solar window film, rainwater harvesting and a green roof!
Solar on schools feasibility
Sheffield City Council is inviting academies to register their interest in phase two of the Solar on Schools programme.
Funded entirely through Sheffield Climate Investment, the programme enables solar panels to be installed on school buildings at no upfront cost to the school. A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is put in place, under which the school buys the electricity generated on-site, typically at around 10% below current electricity prices. This structure guarantees the benefits of solar with none of the upfront cost or responsibility.
Academies that complete an expression of interest will be eligible for a free desktop feasibility study in spring 2026. Installations are planned from spring 2028.
For more information or to book a 1-2-1 session to discuss the programme, please contact Matt Hutton via the button below.
Climate action professional development masterclasses - win a £20 voucher!
Built for Change is working with Sheffield Hallam University to plan free climate change and sustainability professional development masterclasses. These will be suitable for staff from all types of education settings.
We'd like some feedback on themes, activities and timings, as well as what other support you would find helpful.
By completing the survey below, you will help direct the masterclasses, and will be entered into a draw to win one of two £20 gift vouchers! Survey information will be shared between Sheffield City Council and Sheffield Hallam University.
The closing date to be entered into the draw is Friday 13 March, and winners will be notified via email.
Count Your Carbon school report
At the end of January Eco-Schools released their first report based on the Count Your Carbon data submitted by schools across England. You could use this report to see how your setting compares to the national average, and to make informed decisions about what your priority climate actions should be.
Carbon Literacy training for school staff and governors
Thursday 12 March or Friday 26 June 2026
Sheffield Hallam University’s Sustainable Schools Network is offering Carbon Literacy training for school staff, governors and trustees on 12 March 2026 and 26 June 2026. The course is designed to help participants deepen their understanding of climate change, become accredited Carbon Literate individuals, and gain practical skills to reduce both personal and organisational carbon footprints.
Participants commit to completing a short pre-work activity, attending a full day of learning, and creating at least one meaningful carbon-reducing action individually and within their education setting, as well as completing an open-book assessment on the day. The training uses the new Carbon Literacy Toolkit for Schools, is delivered by Lee Jowett (Climate Change and Sustainability Research Fellow at SHU), and costs £75 per person, including lunch, refreshments and external certification. To sign up click the button below.
Big Walk and Wheel 2026
Monday 16 March – Friday 27 March 2026
The Walk Wheel Cycle Trust is running ten days of challenges and competitions for schools to increase active travel. There are details, resources promotional material available on their website, and some exciting prizes to be won!
Let’s Go Zero: Our school is cool webinar
Tuesday 19 May 2026, 3:45 – 4:45pm
Many schools in the UK simply weren’t built for the temperatures we now face more regularly, putting pressure on student concentration, staff wellbeing and even health and safety. Some projections suggest up to eight teaching days could be lost each year by 2050 if changes are not made.
In this webinar, you’ll explore practical solutions (including quick, low-cost actions) to help keep your school cool. You’ll also hear expert insights on climate risks and case studies from school projects already making a difference – including the Built for Change team.
Local School Nature Grants
Schools and early years settings can apply for this grant fund from Learning through Landscapes to increase outdoor learning knowledge, opportunity and resources at your setting.
The closing date for applications is Friday 13 March 2026.
Free school workshops and resources
National Energy Action (NEA) are offering free school visits to settings in Yorkshire, and their website also has downloadable curriculum linked assembly and lesson planning resources.
Have you been forwarded this email by a colleague and would like to sign up to the Built for Change network for Sheffield schools, early years and further education providers?
The Built for Change programme is being delivered by Sheffield City Council in partnership with:
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