Sustainability Policy

Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh, Bishopstown, Cork.

Roll number: 62580U

School Patron: Presentation Brothers Schools Trust

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1. Introduction 

Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh is proud to play an active role in addressing the challenges of sustainability and climate action. Guided by our mission to create a caring and inclusive environment rooted in Christian values, we are committed to equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Through initiatives such as the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) framework, participation in the Irish Schools Sustainability Network (ISSN), and student-led projects, our school fosters a culture of responsibility, innovation, and care for the environment, the community, and future generations.

Mission Statement 

Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh is a Catholic school which seeks to create a caring environment, in which Christian values permeate all aspects of school life and teachers and students find fulfillment. The school believes in the vital importance of respect and good relationships between teachers, students and parents and is conscious of its role in the broader community.

Through the delivery of an excellent and ever evolving academic curriculum and the provision of our well established co-curricular and extra-curricular programmes, we:

  • promote academic excellence by encouraging all students to reach their full potential
  • foster the growth of self-worth and confidence through the development of the whole person;
  • equip students with life-skills and develop their leadership qualities by enabling them to take up leadership roles
  • nurture the importance of caring for the wellbeing of staff and students
  • provide students with opportunities to live their faith through liturgies, and by engaging in social action programmes.
  • empower students to take responsibility for care of the environment.

 

2. Purpose

Sustainability can be defined as the ability to exist and develop without depleting natural resources for the future. This Sustainability Policy outlines the school’s commitment to advancing sustainability and climate action. Through the integration of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) principles and a whole-school approach, we aim to prepare students for active roles as global citizens who can contribute to environmental, social, and economic sustainability. ESD aims to ensure that “by 2030, all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, a culture of peace, global citizenship, and cultural diversity.” (UNESCO Sustainable Development Goal 4.7)

 

3. Scope

This policy applies to all members of the school community, including students, staff, parents, and guardians. Decisions made by the school align with the principles outlined in this policy, and all stakeholders are encouraged to actively support its implementation.

4. Alignment with other school Policies and Procedures

This policy complements key school policies and plans, such as:

  • Code of Positive Behaviour – Promoting responsibility and respect.
  • Student Wellbeing Policy – Supporting holistic development.
  • Anti-Bullying (Cinealta) Policy – Fostering inclusivity and safety.
  • Admissions Policy – Upholding fairness and equity.
  • SPHE and CSPE subject plans
  • Additional Educational Needs (AEN) Policy

5. Whole School Approach to Sustainability

Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh actively participates in the Irish Schools Sustainability Network (ISSN), which provides resources, support, and collaboration opportunities to embed sustainability across our educational practices.

Key initiatives include:

  • Education for Sustainable Development is embraced as a cross-curricular theme, integrated and effectively coordinated across all aspects of school life.
  • Sustainability is embedded into the classroom experience, with opportunities identified and leveraged across all subjects to address and promote sustainable practices.
  • All school policies reflect and align with the principles of sustainable development, ensuring a cohesive approach to environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
  • Adequate and appropriate resources are provided at all levels to support the effective teaching of sustainability within the curriculum.
  • The school conducts regular self-evaluations of its teaching practices in sustainability, ensuring continuous improvement and adherence to best practices.
  • As an active member of the Irish Schools Sustainability Network (ISSN), the school collaborates with other institutions to share resources, ideas, and initiatives that advance sustainability.
  • Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh stays informed on the latest developments in ESD through subscriptions to resources such as the quarterly ESD Newsletter. 

    6.  Environmental Sustainability

    The Green-Schools programme is a global environmental education initiative that empowers schools to integrate environmental issues from the curriculum into their daily operations, fostering sustainable practices throughout the school community.

    • Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh is proud to be a participant in the Green-Schools Programme. Having achieved the Green Flag in 2023, the school is now working towards the Water Theme Green Flag for 2025. A dedicated Green Team comprising both staff and students leads the way in promoting long-term, whole-school environmental action.
    • The school engages actively with the SEAI Education & Youth Programme, leveraging curriculum-linked energy resources, student workshops, and teacher professional development (CPD). 
    • Through the SEAI Energy in Education initiative, the school monitors and reports on its energy usage, contributing to the national target of a 50% energy reduction by 2030. Significant progress has been made, and the school currently requires an 8.5% improvement to meet the target.
    • The school has a comprehensive recycling policy and prioritizes the use of recycled and recyclable materials. Policies on water conservation, waste management, food waste, single-use plastics, and energy efficiency are central to its operations.
    • Procurement processes are environmentally conscious, utilizing materials such as outdoor furniture made from recycled products.
    • Sustainability information is prominently displayed in accessible areas throughout the school to raise awareness and promote responsible practices.
    • Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh actively fosters a culture of care and responsibility for the natural environment.
    • Outdoor learning is a key focus, supported by facilities such as a horticulture area (and Transition Year Horticulture Module) with a polytunnel, flower beds, a compost area, and bird feeders.
    • Biodiversity is promoted through initiatives like bird feeders, a Bee-Friendly Area, and the adoption of a No Mow May policy.
    • Sustainable transport options are encouraged, including participation in the Walk/Cycle to School Week and engagement with the Safe Routes to School Programme.
    • The school collaborates with organizations and programs that promote environmental education, such as ECO UNESCO, Tidy Towns Support, and other local initiatives.
    • Where practical, learning and teaching is paper free.  
    • The school ensures compliance with the ASTI classroom temperature recommendation, maintaining a minimum temperature of 16°C within one hour of opening to provide a safe and comfortable environment while promoting energy efficiency.

    This multifaceted approach ensures that sustainability is woven into the fabric of Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh, equipping students and staff to lead by example in caring for the environment.

    7. Social Sustainability

    At Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh, we are dedicated to fostering a school culture rooted in inclusivity, respect, and global citizenship. Our focus on social sustainability empowers students to engage meaningfully in their communities and develop a deep understanding of societal and global issues.

    • Students are encouraged to participate in community problem-solving initiatives, including volunteering through the Transition Year (TY) program, where they can engage in local projects and fundraising activities.
    • Our ethos emphasizes preparing students to be active and engaged global citizens, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate a diverse and interconnected world.
    • Engagement with Global Citizenship Education (GCE) programs, such as World Wise Global Schools and Civic, Social, and Political Education (CSPE), helps students explore global issues and take informed action on social justice and environmental challenges.
    • The needs of all students, including those with differentiated abilities, are accommodated through tailored supports aligned with our Additional Educational Needs (AEN) policy.

    8. Economic Sustainability

    Economic sustainability at Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh focuses on promoting ethical practices, responsible resource management, and practical learning opportunities. We strive to ensure students are prepared for the future with an understanding of financial and environmental responsibility.

    • A non-competitive ethos of cooperation is modelled in how the school allocates resources, emphasizing collaboration and shared benefits.
    • Students are actively involved in decision-making processes, including resource allocation, through platforms such as the Student Council and School Self-Evaluation (SSE) processes. 
    • The TY Mini-Company module provides students with practical experience in entrepreneurship, teaching them to develop and market products or services with an emphasis on ethical and sustainable principles.
    • Fundraising activities reflect the school’s commitment to ethical practices, ensuring alignment with its core values.
    • The school buildings are maintained to a high standard, incorporating best practices in sustainability to optimize energy efficiency and environmental performance.
    • Students are introduced to the principles of a circular economy, fostering awareness of resource efficiency, recycling, and waste reduction through classroom learning and projects.

    9. Cultural Sustainability

    Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh celebrates cultural diversity and promotes a sense of belonging for all members of the school community. Through our ethos and curriculum, we encourage students to embrace multiculturalism, foster respect, and build strong social connections.

    • The school promotes mutual respect and positive social interaction, helping students build self-esteem and develop meaningful relationships with their peers.
    • Through SPHE (Social, Personal, and Health Education) and RSE (Relationships and Sexuality Education), students learn to navigate relationships, develop empathy, and communicate effectively in a diverse society.
    • Community engagement is encouraged, with students actively participating in initiatives such as Bishopstown Tidy Towns and partnerships with cultural organizations, strengthening ties between the school and the wider community.
    • The school demonstrates a commitment to cultural diversity, celebrating different traditions and fostering intercultural awareness through holistic classroom activities.

    10. Student Competence

    Empowering students to become active participants in their education and their communities is central to our approach. Coláiste an Spioraid Naoimh encourages students to take leadership roles and engage in meaningful, real-world projects.

    • Students are encouraged to engage in peer-to-peer learning, fostering collaboration, mentorship, and shared growth.
    • Participation in action-oriented projects, such as the BT Young Scientist Exhibition (BTYSE) and allows students to address real-world challenges with innovative solutions.
    • Leadership opportunities are provided through the Student Council enabling students to contribute to decision-making and sustainability initiatives.
    • Volunteering with organizations such as Tidy Towns allows students to make a tangible impact on their local environment and community.
    • Project-based learning, such as the TY Horticulture Module, connects students to real-life sustainability challenges, teaching practical skills in gardening, composting, and biodiversity.
    • Through CSPE, students learn to become active citizens, developing critical thinking skills and taking action on societal and environmental issues.

    11. Goals

    The key goals of this policy and programme are as follows:

    1. Environmental Goals:

      • Achieve the Water Theme Green Flag by 2025.
      • Reach the 50% energy reduction target by 2030.
      • Enhance biodiversity and outdoor learning spaces, including horticulture projects and wildlife-friendly initiatives like birdfeeders, No Mow May and Bee Friendly area.

    2. Social Goals:

      • Promote inclusivity, equity, and respectful collaboration through Bystander Intervention training and community engagement.
      • Strengthen civic responsibility and sustainability awareness through programs like CSPE, GCE, and Tidy Towns.

    3. Economic Goals:

      • Emphasize resource efficiency and the circular economy in the curriculum.
      • Foster ethical entrepreneurship through the TY Mini-Company program.

    4. Cultural Goals: 

      • Celebrate cultural diversity and foster intercultural understanding through curriculum and community partnerships.
      • Increase community involvement in sustainability initiatives.

    5. Educational Goals: 

      • Support teacher development through CPD in ESD and related areas.
      • Empower student leadership in sustainability through the Student Council, and action-based learning projects.

    These goals aim to integrate sustainability across all aspects of school life, empowering students and staff to make meaningful contributions to a sustainable future.

    12. Monitoring & Review

    This Sustainability Policy will be reviewed biennially to ensure alignment with evolving best practices and regulatory requirements. Progress toward the policy’s goals will be assessed annually, with updates and adjustments made as necessary to address emerging sustainability challenges and opportunities.

    Review by School Staff: 17th Jan 2025

    Ratified by Board of Management: 10th Feb 2025

    Published: 13th February 2025