Lizzie Dixon

The power of nature is widely documented, particularly when it comes to helping children develop and learn. According to Natural England, children who spend time outside connecting with nature improve in all sorts of areas, including attendance, behaviour and academic achievement. Over the years, increased awareness of the positive impact the great outdoors can have … Read more

There’s just a matter of weeks before the many schools and colleges that applied for a slice of Condition Improvement Funding (CIF) discover if their efforts have paid off. Submitting a successful bid is undoubtedly the ultimate goal. And if all does go according to plan, it can mean a whole new wave of work … Read more

School environments are rapidly evolving from every possible angle in response to the latest learning, wellbeing, statutory, safeguarding and wider requirements. With this change comes multiple opportunities to push new boundaries and create spaces where children can excel within safe and secure surroundings. From a practical perspective, creating these optimum learning environments is underpinned by … Read more

Climate change is an increasingly pressing issue that isn’t just discussed or thought about by adults. Several studies have revealed it is very much a subject that’s on the minds of younger people too. According to research led by the UCL Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Education, when asked how students feel about climate … Read more

As we move into a future shaped by sustainability and community engagement, the concept of connectivity – both to nature and local communities – must be at the heart of how schools operate. The school estate is no longer just about physical infrastructure, it’s about fostering relationships, enhancing wellbeing and maximising the role schools play … Read more

Climate change-related risks are becoming increasingly real for schools. According to latest climate model predictions, extreme overheating in schools is anticipated to increase fivefold by 2050, leading to up five lost days of learning a year. At the same time, rain showers are becoming heavier and set to rise by 59% over the next five … Read more

When people think of “influencers”, they might think of fashion, beauty and the gym. But growing in popularity are the new generation of planet influencers who are tackling the sustainability challenge head on. We’re committed to playing our part, which is why we’ve teamed up with Points4Planet: a school-focused organisation that is helping students and … Read more

All of the above can contribute to a student’s poor mental health, as well as exacerbating pre-existing conditions, such as autism or anxiety. With students spending so much of their time at school or college, we believe that their learning environment should support positive mental health wherever possible, and we’re on a mission to make … Read more

When you think of schools, you think of pupils sat behind their desks being taught in classrooms. However, pupils aren’t the only ones embarking on a learning journey; UK schools are currently undergoing their own net zero learning journey in some shape or form, especially in their efforts to deliver their 2025 Climate Action Plan. … Read more

As the education sector faces rising costs, new regulations and environmental challenges, schools around the UK are embracing exciting and innovative trends in sustainable buildings. We sat down to review the biggest influences that are transforming schools. One of the biggest news items in education over the last year is the removal of the VAT … Read more