Building a Sustainable Future

In 2015, the United Nations introduced the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a collection of 17 interrelated global goals designed as a ‘blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all’ by 2030. These goals address a wide spectrum of issues, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice. Integrating these goals into educational curriculums is crucial to nurturing the next generation of informed and proactive global citizens.  

At Wellington College International Hangzhou, we have embedded the SDGs into our curriculum alongside service projects to emphasise the importance of giving back and making a positive impact on the world. Our approach not only fosters leadership but also deepens the pupils' understanding of global challenges and their roles in addressing them.  

One example of our commitment to sustainability through education is seen in our Year Five pupils, who undertook a project to raise awareness about an endangered species. Their efforts culminated in a presentation in Shanghai and a significant meeting with the renowned primatologist, Dr Jane Goodall, in Beijing. This opportunity allowed them to share their findings and amplify their message on a larger platform, demonstrating to our pupils the power of informed advocacy.  

Similarly, the Year Three pupils embraced the topic of healthy living by initiating a healthy food campaign. Collaborating with our catering company, Sodexo, they designed a week-long menu and engaged community members in learning about healthy eating. This hands-on project not only educated them about nutrition but also promoted healthier lifestyle choices within the community, illustrating the tangible benefits of sustainability on personal well-being.  

Our Year Four pupils contributed by designing sustainable bags to raise funds for Tang Mama, a charity that provides lifesaving jerry cans to children in rural China who lack access to clean water. This initiative underscored the importance of clean water and sanitation, one of the critical SDGs, while fostering a spirit of generosity and innovation among the pupils.  

To ensure sustainability efforts are holistic and ongoing, Wellington College Hangzhou has established a whole-school sustainability committee with representatives from each section of the school. This committee meets regularly to discuss and strategise ways to make the entire school more sustainable. By involving pupils, teachers and staff from various backgrounds and expertise, the committee ensures that sustainability practices are integrated across all aspects of school life and that diverse perspectives are considered in decision-making processes.  

By embedding the SDGs into our educational framework, we highlight how sustainability is key to creating a better future. Sustainable practices ensure that resources are conserved, ecosystems are protected and communities are strengthened, thereby ensuring a healthier planet for future generations. Furthermore, these practices help to reduce inequality and create economic opportunities, leading to more stable and just societies.  

Sustainability education also prepares our children to be global citizens. By understanding and addressing global issues such as climate change and inequality, pupils are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to effect change and advocate for a fairer world. They learn empathy, critical thinking and problem-solving, all essential traits for future leaders.  

At Wellington, leadership is not just an abstract concept; it is an experiential journey. Our commitment to developing pupil leaders is steadfast, ensuring that every child is equipped to make a meaningful impact and is prepared to be the changemaker of tomorrow. Through their efforts, they are already contributing to a better and more sustainable future for all.