Sustainability

Our Commitment to Sustainability

Climate change presents one of the defining challenges of our time, affecting communities locally and globally. At The Oxford Academy, we recognise our responsibility to act, which is why we've developed a clear Sustainability Statement of Intent: 

We recognise the importance of operating sustainably, engaging our whole school community in our efforts, and equipping our students with the knowledge and skills to respond to the challenges of flourishing without negatively impacting on the ability of future generations to do the same. 

Our Strategic Approach

Achieving net zero by 2050 requires both immediate action and long-term planning. We are actively looking for ways to support the River Learning Trust’s wider ambitions of:

• Carbon reduction

• Energy and water efficiency

• Sustainable purchasing

• Sustainable travel

• Waste reduction

• Food and catering

• Curriculum integration

• Staff training and development

Every member of our school community shares responsibility for our environmental impact. Together, we're building a sustainable future. 

What We're Doing Now

Sustainability isn't just a future goal - it's part of our daily operations. Working alongside The River Learning Trust and specialist environmental consultants, we've already implemented meaningful changes in our school, including the use of carbon neutral energy, energy-efficient LED lighting in our buildings, and automated systems that reduce unnecessary energy consumption from lights and computers.

Our students encounter sustainability across the curriculum, not just in Science and Geography. Business students examine how sustainable practices create competitive advantages, while Design Technology classes consider material choices through an environmental lens. PSHE reinforces sustainability themes, supporting students to understand their role in creating a sustainable future.

Our on-site forest school takes a holistic approach to environmental learning, focusing on personal and social growth through hands-on experiences. Students develop practical skills while building teamwork abilities and fostering a deep connection with nature.

Beyond the classroom, students in all year groups participate in clubs and trips focused on environmental action and sustainability leadership. Recent highlights include our participation in OxCOP, where students from schools across Oxfordshire debated climate issues from the perspectives of different countries. Our MACE ESU team won their debate on banning national flights and advanced to the next round of the competition - a testament to our students' passion and expertise on sustainability issues.