A new Net Zero Project Manager for Schools has been appointed to the Net Zero Carbon by 2030 partnership between the Dioceses of Gloucester, Hereford and Worcester.
The partnership, which was launched last year, has a strategic approach that focuses on three key areas: clergy housing, church buildings, and schools. They have now appointed a complete team of three project specialists, funded by the national Church, who will help to drive forward this environmental agenda, starting with a Net Zero transition this year.
Ian Hill, who is based in the Diocese of Hereford, has been appointed as Net Zero Project Manager for schools. He will be working alongside Erica Siddall from the Diocese of Gloucester, and Lee Westcott from the Diocese of Worcester, who joined the project last year. Erica’s work is in developing energy-efficient solutions for clergy homes across all three dioceses, and Lee is focused on helping to reduce carbon emissions in church buildings.
Ian brings extensive experience in sustainable building management and energy efficiency initiatives. He has worked across the education, commercial, health authorities and council sectors for over thirty-five years on their sustainability journey.
He said: “I understand the unique challenges school buildings present when it comes to achieving Net Zero Carbon. I’m particularly excited to apply this knowledge to help our Church of England schools across the three dioceses reduce their carbon footprint.
“Creating sustainable learning environments for pupils and teachers is about implementing practical, cost-effective solutions that will make a real difference to schools.”
Erica Siddall explained: “Schools connected to the Diocese of Gloucester form a large and vibrant community, with many students recognising the urgency of addressing climate change. The work that clergy do in schools is invaluable, bringing families closer to the church. By focusing on reducing school emissions, we are teaching the younger generation the importance of their immediate environment.
“We’re also showing school leaders that support has been provided through additional resources, at no extra cost, with the potential for long-term savings. While we acknowledge the financial challenges schools face, we aim to demonstrate that diocesan partnerships offer deeper, more meaningful support for school leaders.
“Ian has already participated in several headteacher Teams calls and offered to visit schools, providing basic recommendations and connecting them to resources like Lets Go Zero and Count Your Carbon.”
For more information or if you have any enquiries, visit our Environment page or email Ian, Lee or Erica.
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