Funded by the DfE, Climate Ambassadors match volunteer climate experts with education settings.
Part of Let’s Go Zero, Climate Action Advisors are independent experts who offer free support for schools, colleges, and nurseries across England.
Networks and forums
Networks and forums provide space for collaborative learning and problem-solving around sustainability and climate action. They are professional spaces where people can come together, virtually or in person
Networks and forums allow you to:
- exchange ideas and practical insights
- ask questions and get feedback
- get support and inspiration, and learn from best practice
- collaborate on projects with other people
This can have a meaningful impact on your sustainability journey and help unlock further progress.
Before you join a new network
Before you engage with a network to develop your sustainability approach, it would be advisable to:
- check if any networks you are already part of have a sustainability offer
- check if your setting already has a membership to the network
- if there is a cost to join the network, check if there’s funding available or if you can get a subsided rate
- understand the network’s purpose so you’re confident it will be a good use of your time
Suggested networks and forums
We can not quality assure networks, but we have checked the ones listed to make sure they are:
- relevant to education settings and sustainability
- currently active
We’ve included some local authority groups that are known to be active in sustainability. It’s worth reaching out to your local authority forum even if they’re not listed here.
Get the most out of networks
To engage meaningfully in any networks or forums:
- participate and share your experiences, no matter how early you are in your sustainability journey
- don’t be afraid to ask questions that feel obvious or simple, or to reach out to others
- familiarise yourself with their terms of engagement to make sure your contributions align with expectations
- be clear about what you hope to achieve by joining the network, whether it’s expanding your knowledge, building connections, or finding solutions to specific challenges
- regularly reflect on your experiences in the network and assess how well it aligns with your reasons for joining
- don’t overcommit - try to only sign up to a project, idea, or collaboration if you can follow through on it
- embrace diverse viewpoints and be willing to adapt your thinking
Set up a local network
If you can’t find something that fits what you’re looking for, you may decide to set up your own local network. These are some tips to get started:
- ask around and make sure there is enough local appetite for the group
- be clear on your purpose - consider the specific challenges or opportunities you want to address that will make this network unique
- safeguard your time and spend it on things that make a difference
- create a core group of dedicated members who will share the workload, plan and make decisions
- tap into existing community resources, local organisations, or institutions that can support your network’s goals, whether through funding, space, or expertise
- choose the right platform to communicate and collaborate - online or in person
- try to create an inclusive space that celebrates successes
Social media
Use social media platforms like X, LinkedIn and Facebook to connect with others, share ideas, and stay updated on sustainability. These platforms are great for exchanging practical ideas and building a network of like-minded educators committed to sustainability.
Tips: