“It’s always going to be difficult to come up with sustainable ways to support our unsustainable lifestyle”

Charles Wyman New Scientist 2008

Shebbear College is committed to the concept and practice of sustainability. This takes many forms. In no particular order, we already have a catering policy which favours locally sourced produce, we have comprehensive energy and waste management systems in place, we have an annual tree planting programme, students attend training events on sustainability and environmental matters, we participate in the Eco Schools programme as well as the World Action in Methodist Schools Programme. (World AIMS), and also run a Fair Trade shop. This list is not exhaustive, as many small initiatives regularly take place.

A recent initiative saw the introduction of a Renewable Energy Plan which had aspired to add wind energy to the Bio-diesel we are already producing.  We also hope to add solar energy, a biomass boiler and a ground source heat pump to enable us to both harness clean energy and also to be able to study a broad suite of renewable energy technologies.

Wind Turbine Application Withdrawn

 In acknowledgement of the opposition voiced by villagers and in recognition of local people’s feelings, Shebbear College has decided to withdraw its planning application to erect a 46m Wind Turbine. Although the College is, and will continue to be, very keen to explore alternative power sources, the preservation of its long term excellent relationship with the village is thought more important than the potential gains from the proposed initiative.

This action has been taken by the Governors and the Headmaster after having listened to number of presentations on behalf of the village from local residents. The College has always appreciated the support it receives from the local community and is committed to maintaining strong bonds within the parish of Shebbear.