Sustainable schools

Council runs a range of sustainability events and programs for schools and preschools located in the Woollahra area to educate and engage the next generation.

Email us to receive our school sustainability e-news each term with event reminders, grant announcements and free offers for schools.

Local programs to support your sustainability projects and teaching

Expand the headings below to find out more about our local programs.

Kids with native bee hive

Eastern Suburbs Sustainable Schools Network (ESSSN)

The Eastern Suburbs Sustainable Schools Network is a support network for all schools and early learning centres in the Woollahra, Waverley and Randwick council areas. Teachers with a passion for sustainability meet at a different school each term to share current projects and learn about the resources, events and programs available to help.

Dates and themes for 2024 meetings

  • Marine Life - 19 March
  • Bush Tucker - 18 June
  • Composting - 27 August
  • Networking and Project Ideas - 3 November

Register here for upcoming sessions.

Resources from previous meetings

Greening your school - Tree Day

Council supports local schools and preschools to get their hands dirty on Schools Tree Day.

Contact us to learn how to apply for plants for your school's tree day planting.

Composting, recycling and waste education

Council supports schools and preschools to become sustainable through simple waste minimisation strategies including providing free compost and worm farms for use at the school sites through our Compost Revolution program.

School recycling is the responsibility of the Department of Education through state contracts. You can find out more about the current contract by viewing this webinar from 2021.

You can request a waste education session for your school through this application form.

 

Solar My School

Solar My School is a free Council program to help local schools navigate a path to solar success, from start to finish.

To see all the schools we've supported and learn more about the program visit the Solar My School website.

School visits

Council’s Environmental Education Officer and Waste Projects Officer are available to visit your school and deliver sustainability presentations or provide support to your school's sustainability team. Themes include:

  • urban wildlife
  • creating habitat for small birds
  • energy audits and action
  • waste and recycling.

Complete the application form.

Reduce your school's carbon emissions

Find ideas for projects through the EcoSchools program.

Step 1. Design and implement a project to reduce your emissions.

This case study from Redlands School(PDF, 734KB) in Cremorne is an inspiring example of how to make a difference. The school reduced their energy use and emissions from lighting by 68% by installing LED lights.

Step 2. Monitor your emissions and see how your school's emissions change after your project.

Platforms are available to monitor the impact of your projects.

 

Resources to support your sustainability projects and teaching