Climate change and sustainability education in England

A new report highlights the importance of addressing the climate and nature crises in schools as the world faces unprecedented environmental challenges. Leading climate scientists have warned that many of Earth’s “vital signs” are at record-breaking extremes, with global warming projections for 2100 still pointing to a dangerous 2.7°C increase. This path threatens to exacerbate extreme weather events, including increased flooding risks for over 10,000 English primary and secondary schools – a number expected to rise significantly by 2050.

Adding to the urgency is the parallel nature crisis, as highlighted by the WWF Living Planet Report 2024, which reveals a catastrophic 73% decline in wildlife populations over the past 50 years. Despite mounting evidence of these crises, a gap persists between awareness and action. While many people acknowledge the need for significant lifestyle changes, behaviours such as heavy car usage, high meat consumption, and electricity overuse remain prevalent. A survey of 11-14-year-olds reflects growing anxiety about the future, with 87% of respondents expressing deep concern.

Education as a Catalyst for Change

The report highlights the role of education in preparing young people to navigate and mitigate these challenges. While systemic, long-term changes to the education system are necessary, immediate action is possible, particularly through the Department for Education’s (DfE) Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy. This strategy outlines five key strands, including climate education, green skills and careers, and sustainable school estates. 

Led by the Natural History Museum in partnership with the Royal Horticultural Society and other organisations, the National Education Nature Park helps schools to transform their sites into spaces that benefit both people and wildlife. It aims to place climate and nature at the heart of the curriculum by providing quality-assured resources for teachers across all subjects and key stages.

D&T Association CEO Tony Ryan states; "We were delighted to be asked to contribute to this report. Climate change, sustainability, circularity, and the need for us all to adapt our consumer behaviours are significant aspects of design and technology education. I am delighted to see the emphasis placed on this work by all subject associations involved. Through the CfSA, where we all meet and collaborate, we will be looking at how we can collectively best pick up the key threads from this report and turn them into actions."

Challenges in the Current Curriculum

However, the report notes that the existing National Curriculum in England needs more emphasis on the climate and nature crises. The findings of this report call for bold steps to integrate climate and nature education into every aspect of the curriculum, equipping young people with the knowledge and skills needed to build a sustainable future. The clock is ticking, and education is one of the most powerful tools available to address the twin crises of climate and biodiversity.