Environment, Sustainability & Climate
Rivington and Blackrod High School has demonstrated a clear passion for improving its sustainability and climate responsibility, highlighted by significant action and student-led initiatives. The school, part of the Leverhulme Trust, has secured over £2.2 million in government funding to implement a major energy transformation, including the installation of air source heat pumps, solar panels, and upgraded insulation to achieve net-zero carbon emissions in the future.
Beyond infrastructure, the school actively promotes environmental awareness through student engagement, such as the cycle to school weeks, trust litter picks and environments workshops which encourage all our students to be responsible for their environments.
These efforts reflect a commitment to preparing students to be responsible, global citizens who understand the importance of environmental stewardship and making positive contributions to a greener society.
Sustainability and Climate Team
Mr Monk (Head of Operations)
Mr Brown (Head of Personal Development)
Site Manager
Site and Catering Team
Student Environment Group Prefects
Sustainability and Climate Action Plan
The Sustainability and Climate group have created a working climate and sustainability document to align our key priorities. These actions will will be reviewed after each term to ensure rapid progress to the targets are met.
Decarbonisation
Leverhulme Trust is delighted to announce that one of its schools, Rivington and Blackrod High School, has been granted over £2.2 million in funding through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme to deliver a major sustainability project — creating a greener, cleaner and more energy-efficient school for future generations.
The school will begin a phased transformation of its energy systems with completion expected by early 2027. The project will replace outdated heating systems with renewable and energy-efficient technologies, significantly reducing carbon emissions and future-proofing the school site. This supports the UK’s national commitment to net zero and contributes to a healthier future for young people.
Key upgrades will include the installation of low-carbon heating technologies such as air source heat pumps, solar panels, and substantial improvements to insulation and energy management controls.
Paul Roach, CEO of Leverhulme Trust, said:
“We are delighted to have been granted funding through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. This investment will enable us to modernise the school’s energy systems, reduce our carbon footprint, and create a more sustainable environment for our students and staff.”
This initiative forms part of the Trust’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability. Earlier this year, electric vehicle charging points were introduced across its schools, with further expansion planned. Since 2017, the Trust has invested more than £17 million in capital projects aimed at improving school facilities, supporting student learning and empowering communities.
Trust Wide Litter Projects

