What is Learning for Sustainability?

Learning for Sustainability (LfS) is an inclusive educational approach that fosters the growth of learners, educators, schools, and their communities in constructing a fair, sustainable, and just society. It embraces a comprehensive school-wide and community-oriented strategy by integrating global citizenship, sustainable development education and outdoor learning.

Scotland’s Learning for Sustainability Action Plan 2023-2030
A newly refreshed Learning for Sustainability Action Plan was launched in December 2023 to make sustainability a central focus in the Scottish education system. The plan aims to build an inspiring movement for change so every 3 to 18 place of education becomes a sustainable learning setting by 2030.

Education Scotland’s Self-Evaluation Framework for LfS can be used to stimulate dialogue and action towards a whole school and community approach to LfS. The progression statements from ‘Starting the journey’ through to ‘Features of highly effective practice’ are categorised under Leadership, Learning, and Achievements, aligning with improvement priorities. It offers flexibility and includes questions for discussion. A summary version format available here.

• LOOKING INWARDS: Self-evaluation
• LOOKING OUTWARDS: Learning from others
• LOOKING FORWARDS: Planning for the future