At George Eliot Academy, we are proud to be taking a major step forward in our sustainability journey as we begin installing solar panels across our school buildings. This project marks an important milestone in our commitment to reducing our environmental impact and embracing cleaner, renewable energy.

Working in partnership with eEnergy and programme manager Mace Consult, we are installing a solar panel system across all four of our buildings. Once complete, the system is expected to generate around a third of our annual electricity needs, helping us become more energy‑independent while reducing our carbon footprint.

This week, 15 pupils were invited to take part in a special site walk‑around, where they heard directly from the project manager about how the system works and what goes into delivering large‑scale energy projects. Pupils were able to see the technology up close and gain a deeper understanding of how renewable energy will help power their school.

The project is already enriching learning in the classroom. Pupils will have access to live performance data from the solar panels and other technologies, supporting lessons in science, maths, geography and citizenship. Later this term, we will also be offering a ‘Green Careers’ session for pupils interested in exploring future pathways in energy and sustainability.

This initiative forms part of the Great British Energy Solar Partnership (GBESP), funded by Great British Energy and the UK government, and delivered with the Department for Education. George Eliot Academy is proud to be one of just 72 schools across the Midlands selected to take part.

Our pupils have already shared their excitement:

“It’s great to see our school doing something positive for the environment. The solar panels show that small changes can make a big difference.” Jamie (Y10)

“Knowing our school is using renewable energy makes me feel proud, because we’re helping to protect the planet for the future.” James (Y10)

Our Principal, Homeira Zakary, shared her thoughts, ‘We are proud to be taking meaningful action towards a greener future, reducing our environmental impact and championing sustainable energy within our local community. This investment reflects our long-term commitment to protecting the environment and supporting a cleaner, more sustainable future.’