29th January 2024
Connect ran a survey on learning for sustainability, environmental education in schools and parental involvement between 25 September to 13 November 2023.
We wanted to know:
- What do parents think about sustainability and the environment?
- What actions are schools and parent groups taking on this topic?
- And are parents being kept fully informed about, and involved in, what schools and parent groups are doing?
Read the full report of our findings here.
Our survey tells us that sustainability is very important to the vast majority of parents and carers (over 90%)! This represents a fantastic opportunity for schools to work with families and the wider community on sustainability and the environment. Parents and carers are keen to contribute and do more!
The findings show there are currently many more opportunities for schools to lead in sustainability and the environment. Excellent work is already happening, but we're calling on educators and schools to make sure they:
- Share children's learning about sustainability with families so they can also learn. This is a fantastic family learning opportunity to help the planet!
- Communicate about (and involve parents in) school eco-projects, including the Eco-Schools Scotland Green Flag scheme – parents can bring a wealth of skills and resources to their schools!
- Offer more outdoor learning opportunities for children and young people. Schools can enlist parent support with this and can help families understand how, and where, to do outdoor learning of their own! Another great family learning opportunity!
- Celebrate parental involvement in school projects and share good practice – parental involvement in uniform exchanges, seed swops, cycle training is a win-win for the environment!