In accord with its strong ethos based on social justice, Fircroft College’s mission is to promote social and climate/environmental justice by providing adults with an excellent learning environment for personal, professional and political development. This drives a single, clear strategic goal: To support the development of global sustainable citizens. Implementation is through a climate action plan which aims for sustainability impact in all areas of the college: the curriculum, teaching and learning, the college estate, living practices, partnerships and people. Fircroft was the first college to declare a climate emergency.
Sustainability is not a far-off aspiration but is made a reality for every member of the college community. Students talk readily about how the college’s commitment to sustainability is evident in all parts of the student experience; from the curriculum to enrichment activities and from the way food waste is managed in the canteen to how outdoor spaces are used for learning and for supporting their mental and physical wellbeing. At the recent staff engagement survey 100% of staff said that they understand the college’s commitment to sustainability and their role in achieving this. Every staff member has their own personal sustainability objective, which is not necessarily just associated with their job role but arises from their personal interest. Everyone is encouraged to consider their Green purpose, what they love doing and what work can be done. The intersection of all three is the sweet spot which Fircroft call their Climate Joy.
For example, the College’s Vice Principal Michael Conway-Jones had always cycled to college. He found his Climate Joy when it was agreed that he should channel that personal passion into a college objective. Fircroft became the first college in the country to gain Gold accreditation from Cycling UK as a cycle-friendly employer after creating downloadable cycle routes, installing an all-weather tool station and additional cycle parking next to reception, and providing access to cycle buddies, lockers and showers. This now contributes directly to the core business with the delivery of a City and Guilds Cycle Mechanics qualification.
Michael says “Funding from Sports England means that qualified staff will be able to lead regular rides from the college and share the joy with people who haven’t cycled for a long time and don’t have a bike”.
