At Activate Learning, sustainability is not just a message. It is something we do every day across our campuses, courses and communities.
During Colleges’ National Green Week, we are shining a light on the real actions happening across our organisation that are helping to build a greener future.
From reducing energy use to supporting biodiversity, and from learner-led projects to industry partnerships, our campuses are working together to make a positive environmental impact.
Why this matters
Colleges play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable future.
At Activate Learning, sustainability is embedded in how we operate, how we teach and how we collaborate with our partners. Our staff and learners are driving meaningful change, and every action contributes to something bigger.
What we are doing
Innovation and investment in our campuses
We are continuously investing in our campuses to reduce our environmental impact and improve sustainability for the future.
This includes:
- Upgrading buildings to improve energy efficiency
- Exploring low-carbon technologies
- Developing more sustainable infrastructure
- Piloting new approaches to reduce emissions
These investments ensure our campuses remain fit for the future while supporting our environmental commitments.
Greener campus operations
Across our campuses, we are taking practical steps to reduce our environmental impact.
This includes:
- Improving energy efficiency
- Increasing recycling and reducing waste
- Creating more sustainable travel options
- Developing biodiversity and green spaces
These actions may seem small individually, but together they create lasting change.
Green skills for a sustainable future
Sustainability is not only about how we run our campuses. It is also about preparing our learners for the careers of tomorrow.
At Activate Learning, we are equipping learners with the knowledge and skills needed to support the transition to a greener economy. From construction and engineering to science and technology, sustainability is embedded across our curriculum.
By developing green skills, our learners are ready to contribute to industries that are driving environmental change and innovation.
- Green Careers Week at Activate Learning
- Activate Learning creates Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Skills Hub at Reading College
- Activate Learning unveils new Skills Bootcamps to boost local careers in Surrey
- Activate Learning launches their online sustainability programmes
- Why sustainability education matters: Building a greener future
Learners leading the change
Our learners are not just participants in sustainability. They are leaders.
Across our campuses, learners are:
- Leading sustainability projects
- Contributing ideas and solutions
- Taking part in environmental initiatives
- Developing skills through real-world experiences
Their passion and creativity are helping to shape a more sustainable future for our communities.
- Reading College students have a go at upcycling
- Young chefs experience sustainable cooking
- Mannequins Upcycled art and fashion exhibition unveiled in Bracknell
- Reading College and University Centre students cook up a storm at Reading Town Meal
- Merrist Wood College and University Centre celebrates double win at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair
Working in partnership
Collaboration is key to creating meaningful environmental change.
We work closely with employers, industry partners and local communities to support sustainability initiatives and develop skills that meet the needs of a greener economy.
Together, we are helping to:
- Build a skilled workforce for green industries
- Support local environmental projects
- Share knowledge and best practice
These partnerships strengthen our impact and extend sustainability beyond our campuses.
- Activate Learning SEND students celebrate greening project at Oxford Parkway Station
- Guildford College carpentry students partner with local construction firm to build shelter for children’s hospice charity shop
People making a difference
Our sustainability work is powered by our people.
From estates teams leading campus improvements to learners studying green skills and staff championing new initiatives, our community is at the heart of everything we do.
Their work is helping to shape more sustainable campuses and careers.
- Schools take part in Bracknell Forest Council’s Climate Conference at Bracknell and Wokingham College
- Reading College and University Centre and Bracknell and Wokingham College champion launch of Berkshire’s Green Construction Advisory Panel
- Merrist Wood College and University Centre supports Shooting Star Children’s Hospices Festive Fundraiser for third year
Supporting the journey to net zero
We recognise the important role education plays in addressing climate change.
Across Activate Learning, we are working to reduce emissions and embed sustainable practices in everything we do. From how we manage our estates to how we deliver our courses; our actions support the wider journey towards net zero.
This is an ongoing commitment, and we are focused on making continuous, measurable progress.
Green spaces and biodiversity
Our campuses are more than places to study.
They are environments where nature can thrive and where learners can connect with green spaces. From planting initiatives to wildlife areas, we are supporting biodiversity and creating spaces that benefit both people and the planet.
Everyday green actions
Sustainability is a shared responsibility.
We encourage everyone in our community to take simple steps that make a difference, such as:
- Bringing reusable bottles or cups
- Switching off unused devices
- Recycling correctly
- Walking or cycling to campus where possible
Small actions, taken together, can have a big impact.
Our impact
Through collaboration, innovation and everyday action, Activate Learning is contributing to a more sustainable future.
By embedding sustainability into our campuses and curriculum, we are also preparing our learners with the skills and knowledge needed for a greener economy.
Get involved during Colleges’ National Green Week
Join us this Colleges’ National Green Week and be part of the change.
There are lots of ways to get involved, you can:
- Join sustainability activities on campus
- Take part in learner-led initiatives
- Try simple everyday actions to reduce your impact
- Share your own green actions with our community
Follow our campaign, learn more about sustainability at Activate Learning campuses and take your own steps towards a more sustainable future.
Together, we can make a difference.
