On May 12th Weston College hosted its first Sustainability and Social Action Business Breakfast for regional employers and stakeholders. The event reflected on actions being taken by the College, in response to the Government asking the education sector to bridge the skills gaps in order to progress the key national sustainability and social action agendas.

During the breakfast guests heard from number of speakers illustrating activities relevant to the College, Careers and the Community, and discussing the College’s journey as an employer, as they put strategies in place to work towards Net Zero - adopting the College’s ethos of being green, lean and socially responsible.

The morning started with a welcome and introduction from the College’s Principal Dr Paul Phillips CBE, who then introduced Ben Knocks, Assistant Principal who highlighted how the College is supporting green careers and creating an ethos for action amongst its students and staff.

Nicola Lace, the Faculty of Inclusive Practice Lead Operations Manager then showed the room how the faculty has embraced ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’ approach, providing positive role models to its 264 learners, showing them how to embrace a greener future through projects such as bike rentals, food for thought, a new upcycle campus shop and online venture.

Guests also benefitted from an inspirational perspective from keynote speaker, Chris Hines MBE Hon.D.Sc. Chris’s passion came across as he told the audience about his experience of working and campaigning for the environment for last 30 years, and it was clear to see he revels in inspiring positive change.

Chris was a co-founder and then Director of Surfers Against Sewage and then Sustainability Director at the Eden Project and was awarded an MBE for “services to the environment”.

Chris works on strategic planning, communications, leadership and embedding sustainability principles as part of a profitable business and strongly believes that business can be a force for good in a challenging world. He sent a message of slowing down consumption, making a conscious and positive contribution to our environment and together we will make the world a better place.

Dr Paul Phillips CBE commented: “Weston College are proud to be playing a key role in this agenda, working in partnership with North Somerset Council and other key organisations, on this important issue of progressing sustainability and social action for the region. This morning enabled us to share our direction and work in partnership with our business community to make a difference. The College will also shortly be hosting a Sustainability Conference for its learners to bring together their thoughts and to share a direction for a greener, leaner and more socially responsible future.”

The Breakfast was supported by the Accelerate Programme, funded by the UK Government Community Renewal Fund which is a unique initiative that provides sector support and workshops to individuals and businesses in North Somerset.