Inspire Education Group Wins Prestigious International Silver Green Apple Award for Commitment to Sustainability

Inspire Education Group (IEG), comprising of Stamford College, Peterborough College and University Centre Peterborough (UCP), has won an International Silver Green Apple Award for Environmental Best Practice in Education and Training, following a prestigious ceremony at the Houses of Parliament.

Providing a global stage for initiatives that make a profound environmental difference, the annual Green Apple Environment Awards, coordinated by The Green Organisation, recognise entries from companies, organisations and communities across the private and public sectors. The accolade positions Inspire Education Group at the forefront of climate action among further education providers, testament to its commitment to sustainable practice.

Peterborough College has implemented a variety of initiatives to minimise its carbon footprint. In the academic year 2021/2022, the Group received condition funding from the Department for Education. Coupled with internal funds, the organisation allocated £2 million towards building enhancements, including the installation of new windows, the replacement of five inefficient boilers and roofs, and the updating of the Building Management System (BMS).

At the Stamford campus, the Modern Methods of Construction Centre (MMC) achieved ‘Very Good’ status in the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) sustainability assessment. This accomplishment was realised with the usage of eco-bricks, sustainably-sourced timber, four air-source heat pumps, a natural ventilation strategy, and passive infrared sensors (PIRs) in all rooms. 58 solar panels were also installed, generating 24.27 MWh of electricity to date.

The involvement of the IEG staff and student community plays a crucial role in IEG’s sustainability efforts. An integral aspect of the MMC's construction, demonstration windows were installed to showcase the building's insulation structure, alongside displays of solar panel readings. These features aim to inspire students to consider their environmental impact. Students from all disciplines also undertake a sustainability module as part of their curriculum, to further their knowledge and awareness of what they can do both onsite and in everyday life, to reduce their own carbon footprints.

Wayne Granger, Health and Safety Officer of Inspire Education Group, remarked, “The awards ceremony at the Houses of Parliament was a momentous occasion for us all. As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to taking collective action towards a greener future”.

Inspire Education Group expresses its gratitude to The Green Organisation for this recognition.