Dr Verity Jones, Associate Professor

University of the West of England, Bristol

I work in the Department of Education and Childhood at University of West of England, Bristol (UWE), Bristol where I am part of the Primary Education Initial Teacher Training team.

When I arrived 5 years ago sustainability was not a focus. Now our student teachers are critical components to a sustainable future as gatekeepers of sustainable education and supporters of hopeful and healthy mental health in the face the climate crisis.

My work has seen the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recognised in every programme we offer. A cultural shift means I have supported colleagues who now have the confidence to independently seek opportunities to embed the SDGs in their practice: looking for opportunities to use SDG related case studies to inform and enable learning. Beyond my role I support our Students’ Union in delivering sustainable workshops and use my network of sustainability experts to link, develop and amplify the work we do. The impact of the change reaches beyond UWE staff and students.

My work has seen 300+ Partnership schools who support our students on placement become more involved in sustainability related teaching and learning. Our Department will host the first Education Conference at UWE this summer with over 100 education professionals coming to learn and share issues relating to sustainability education.

What the Judges Thought

Verity's holistic approach to ESD is engaging and motivating, and their passion was very clear from the application. Verity has clearly demonstrated how the work they are doing goes above their role, and is contributing to wider societal benefits. There are clear ways that this work can be replicated in other institutions and benefits a large number of students.

What it Means to Win

"Sustainability is at the heart of Transforming Futures, UWE’s Strategy 2030. Winning this Green Gown award is welcome recognition for the many actions of students and staff that are helping to make UWE Bristol a more sustainable university."

Professor Steve West, Vice Chancellor, President and CEO

Top 3 Learnings

1. Look for the possibilities and start out with a ‘we can do this’ attitude.
2. Meet new and interesting people as often as possible to keep ideas fresh, share learning and be inspired.
3. Love what you do!