Case Study: Connecting School Based Sustainability Initiatives with Community Action

This project was concerned with investigating the role of schools in bringing about more sustainable communities; in particular, how learning in schools could spill over into action in communities. It explored the skills, knowledge and processes of learning and action that are most effective in contributing to sustainable communities; the role children and young people can play as agents of change in this process; and how schools might further their role as community catalysts. The primary academic contribution of this research has been to develop a better understanding of what forms of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) are most likely to stimulate action by children, families, and schools in their wider community. This case study provides insights into issues and processes at play as school based learning for sustainability seeks to spill over into action and change in the community based on action research in one partner school and community.