Sustainability Leadership in Schools: Shared Vision & School Policy

This learning path is designed to guide school heads in developing a shared vision for Sustainability Citizenship in their schools that is supported by the whole school environment. This will be the basis for developing a school policy for sustainability citizenship that fits the school overall vision on education. By the end of this journey, school heads and educators in leadership roles will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to engage educators, embed their input into the vision for Sustainability Citizenship, align this with their broader school vision and policy.

The online part of this Module will take approximately 1 hour. However, keep in mind that it offers tools to create plans, engage the whole school and build a more sustainable future for your school. Engaging, planning and implementing and will take more time.

Journey Content

Requirements

1. Participants are expected  to have a clear vision on education for their school.
2. The school’s vision forms the basis of this course.
3. Familiarity with the basic principles of education management and leadership is beneficial.
4. Basic sustainability concepts are expected to be known. 

Level 1 – Introduction to Sustainability Citizenship

Level 1 introduces school heads to the fundamental concepts of Sustainability Citizenship — its definition, scope, and importance in education. Through case studies of successful school initiatives, participants will build a foundational understanding of Sustainability Citizenship and its relevance to their role as school leaders.

Level 2 – Whole School Approach, Vision Building & School Policy

Level 2 begins by introducing the Whole School Approach. This forms the basis for formulating a shared vision, that is supported by the whole school, through engaging all school stakeholders. This shared vision will feed into school policies to support sustainability citizenship in a way that suits the school. Participants will gain insights into creating sustainable policies and practices that can be adopted school-wide. 

Level 3 – Practical implementation

Level 3 guides school heads through practical strategies to integrate sustainability into school operations. The focus will be on actionable steps and real-world applications that make a significant impact. By the end of Level 3, school heads will have concrete plans to implement and promote sustainability within their institutions. 

Objectivos de aprendizagem

• Define and contextualise Sustainability Citizenship: Participants can explain the concept of Sustainability Citizenship, its scope, and why it matters in an educational context.
• Recognise the Whole School Approach as a framework for change: Participants understand how a shared vision, inclusive of all school stakeholders, underpins sustainable school policy and practice.
• Connect Sustainability Citizenship to their leadership role: Participants can articulate how their position as school head enables them to drive and embed sustainability across the school community.
• Obtain insights and tools on how to promote teacher efficacy: Participants understand the interaction between leadership and teaching staff, how this interaction can support or work against implementation.
• Identify concrete first steps for implementation:  Participants leave with at least one actionable strategy they can apply within their school context to advance Sustainability Citizenship.

Context of Implementation:

• Classroom: Interactive workshops and group discussions.
• School: Implementation of sustainability initiatives and policies.
• Campus: Development of sustainable infrastructure and practices.
• Online: Webinars and online resources for continuous learning.
• Community: Engagement with local partners and stakeholders.
• Field Trips: Visits to sustainable schools and green projects.
• Home: Encouraging sustainable practices among students and families.

Shall we begin this journey towards a greener education and a more sustainable world?