Wakehurst PS recently used its investing in schools grant to help cool the school. Rather than investing the money into climate warming technology they invested the money into more sustainable practices. This included insulating all the classrooms, which is one of the most effective ways of cooling and heating any space.

Awnings were installed on classrooms that received the worst of the afternoon sun. All windows were repaired to allow opening.


A gap was left between the new awnings and existing structures to allow heat to escape.


The hall was modified to allow doors to open outwards.


Louvre windows were installed with fans to draw cool air into the hall.


The hall Colah was insulated to reduce heat.

Staff were also instructed in the best way to cool classrooms using blinds and windows. The attached document provides some additional hints about how to stay cool (or warm) at school.

The summary of the Stern Report is an interesting read. If ever there is a reason to integrate sustainability into teaching and school management practices then the issue of climate change is it.

The summary outlines some of the actions that we will have to take to mitigate the worst effects of climate change.

Download the summary.

The Who Wants to Be a Millionaire powerpoint was originally developed by the Quality Teaching team in DET. We have modified the first 10 questions to relate to environmental education and sustainability. These questions could be expanded and are a great discussion starter for looking at issues relating to sustainability.

Download the powerpoint here.

We have been using the Sustainability Cafe activity at the end of each of our workshops to help generate and record discussion on sustainable behaviours, practices and actions that are or could be occurring in schools. We think the activity is a great way to get staff to discuss sustainability in an informal way. The activity was adapted from the Global Cafe activity from the Primary Connections workshops.

Download the instructions here.

Download the supporting pictures here.

The North Sydney Regional Environmental Education and Sustainability Plan 2007-2010 was developed with input from students, teachers, parents, government and non government personnel. The plan was launched late 2007.

The plan can be used to support your sustainability and environmental education initiatives. Download the plan by clicking on the picture below.