Cockburn school to benefit from Government solar panel funding

Cockburn school is set to benefit from an expanded Government scheme that looks to cut their energy bills so that money can instead be spent on education essentials such as textbooks and teachers.

As part of an expanded scheme to fund solar panels for NHS sites, military sites and schools, more than 250 schools across England have signed agreements to benefit from a share of up to £100 million in funding from Great British Energy and government for new solar panels and other energy efficiency measures.

The funding comes from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, in partnership with the Department for Education.

They will be able to install Great British Energy solar panels to cut their energy bills. Savings will then be reinvested in the schools for items like textbooks and stationery or to fund staffing costs. The scheme will target schools and colleges with buildings that are able to accommodate solar panels in areas most in need.

David Gurney MBE, Executive Headteacher/CEO of the Cockburn Multi Academy Trust said, “We know the financial pressures schools face and the tough decisions that have to be made on where to spend their budgets. This scheme will help them keep energy costs down so their money can spent on the things that really matter – teaching and learning. This will help us realise our goals of all children getting the best education they can in a setting that makes them feel like they belong and can achieve their aspirations.”

Rob Dixon, Headteacher at Cockburn School added, “I am delighted that Cockburn School will be benefitting from the Government scheme for the installation of Great British Energy solar panels. This will support our commitment to sustainability and reduce our energy costs, allowing more resources to be invested directly into enriching teaching and learning. The new solar panels will provide our students with real-life opportunities to learn about renewable energy, climate action and sustainability.”