Josh MacAlister MP, Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing, visited St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Poole, which is one of the 23 schools across England with solar panels now installed as part of the GBESP. The programme, delivered by LocatED, is helping the schools involved to generate clean electricity whilst reducing energy bills to free up funds in school budgets.  

As well as installing a 36.75 kWp solar panel array, St Joseph’s Primary School of the Plymouth CAST Multi Academy Trust received LED lighting across the site, and two electric vehicle charging points. 

During the visit, Minister MacAlister was shown the school’s many innovative sustainability initiatives, alongside their new solar panel array which is massively reducing the school’s carbon emissions and energy costs.  

This included the Minister hearing about the behaviour change workshops which are promoting greener habits, raising awareness about efficient energy use, and empowering students and staff to take a leading role in climate initiatives. 

Throughout his visit, Minister MacAlister engaged in several discussions with the pupils and staff who expressed their passion for climate action, telling him how the various strategies are helping them to develop confidence and environmental stewardship.  

The school has received just under £80,000 in grant funding from the GBESP, which is generating considerable savings already. A 24% reduction in gas use, and a 36% cut in electricity use is projected to save the school £8,500 annually. The savings made by the programme will go straight back into pupil learning, as well as funding further energy efficiency measures.