A commitment to the future
Hutchesons’ Grammar School is committed to sustainability
In 2026, our youngest pupils start their Hutchesons’ journey. This special year group will be our 2041 Leavers marking an important milestone in our school’s historyour 400th anniversary. This is a unique opportunity to connect the school's rich past with its present and sustainable future.
Our Ambition
To launch a whole-school sustainability strategy in 2026 that aims to reduce our environmental impact, improve our efficiency and equip our pupils with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to address the challenges of tomorrow.
LED lighting saves
83.71% in energy costs
97% of our waste is recycled - 37% onsite and 60% offsite
The story so far:
Boiler upgrades at our Primary School have improved energy efficiency Solar panels generate approximately 170,000 kWh per year
66,000 miles in an aeroplane saved - that’s more than twice around the world!
6% of our electricity is renewable
Action Plan
The Sustainability Action Group is dedicated to creating a comprehensive action plan that will guide our organisation in integrating environmental responsibility across our operations. This document is the start of our journey towards our Sustainability for 2041 Strategy. Over the next two years, we will be looking at eight key areas of school life, investigating and setting measures for meaningful change.
This plan will serve as a foundation for fostering sustainable practices, engaging our community, and equipping pupils with the values and knowledge to contribute to a greener future. Through collaborative planning, we will create a structured approach to sustainability that strengthens our commitment to environmental stewardship and educational excellence. This plan will involve all our stakeholders - from pupils and parents; to staff and suppliers.
Food
Enhance the sustainability of the school’s catering by focusing on local sourcing, seasonal and plant-based options, with a commitment to reducing food waste.
Educate our community on responsible consumption and set a standard for environmentally conscious food provision.
Water
Review our water usage to reduce consumption and explore opportunities to avoid wastage and enhance our natural land drainage systems. This may also include rainwater harvesting to re-use natural resources.
Waste
Evaluate current waste streams to analyse and identify methods for minimising and actively reducing waste. Future efforts will focus on eliminating certain types of waste, such as plastics, and prioritising reuse and recycling wherever possible, with the goal of achieving zero waste to landfill.
Transport
Provide viable and accessible sustainable travel options for staff and pupils for travel to school resulting in a reduction of carbon emissions. Considering carbon footprints for trips and consider eco-friendly transport
Energy
Analyse existing data to identify opportunities to reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption, with a focus on enhancing efficiency. This approach will inform future investments in renewable energy and infrastructure upgrades.
Curriculum
Define and embed sustainability in every aspect of our school curriculum for the benefit of our pupils, community and the wider world. This will involve consulting with the pupil body, director of curriculum and heads of department to support individual teachers as they review and develop course material.
Procurement
Establish a procurement process that prioritises sustainability by sourcing goods and services that minimize environmental impact, promote resource efficiency, and support ethical practices.
Nature
Enhance engagement with nature in our local spaces by identifying areas within our school grounds and community that foster and promote sustainable environmental connections and biodiversity. This initiative will create meaningful opportunities for pupils, families and staff to interact with nature at a personal level as we move towards 2041.
By committing to sustainability, we honour our past and ensure that this historic school continues to thrive and lead, inspiring future generations for the next 400 years.
For more information, or to get involved in our Sustainability for 2041 Strategy, please email
sustainability@hutchesons.org