Frequently Asked Questions

Click on a question to take you to the answer:

Why has the EAUC developed this package?
Where does it take place?
How does it work?
Do we have to undertake all 8 modules?
What do we recommend as the starting point?
What does it cost?
How long does it take?
What staff are involved?
What do I get out of it at the end?
Who delivers it?
Who has endorsed the programme?
What further support does EAUC offer?
Do I need to be a Member of the EAUC to take part?
How do I get started on the Programme?

Why has the EAUC developed this package?

The EAUC knows that there has been a lot of excellent work in responding to the challenge of sustainability in the sector and this package is aimed at helping institutions build on this and go further. Our experience of the sector has shown us that whilst champions’ networks have been established, policies developed and Fairtrade status has been gained, a systematic and holistic approach to sustainability across the whole institution is sometimes either lost or neglected. Whilst progress is made sometimes an institution needs support in reviewing success to date and systematically planning the next steps. With the growth in awareness of sustainability as an issue for Further and Higher Education, the EAUC are keen to support institutions in this process and have the experience, skills and resources to draw on.

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Where does it take place?

The Sustainability Leaders Programme takes place within your institution. The EAUC will work with your senior managers, operational and academic staff and students to help embed sustainability throughout the institution. We come to you!

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How does it work?

The process is simple. Following a presentation and discussion with your senior management team, we will develop (with you) an outline of a programme for your institution. This programme is a shared activity and will be implemented with and alongside the environmental and sustainability professionals within your institution. The programme is tailor made to your needs and requirements.

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Do we have to undertake all 8 modules?

No. Not all modules may be needed or desired. However, we would argue that all modules are important for an institution to fully respond to the challenge of sustainability and fulfil its potential. It is possible to agree to undertake 4 out of 8 modules for example, and then review the next steps as appropriate. You can pick and choose which modules are applicable to your institution. Each module is tailor made to your institution based on current practice and progress to date – when you contact us we can help advise which modules would work best for your institution. You can pick one module now and then pick another module when you are ready to take the next step.

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What do we recommend as the starting point?

We always recommend module 1 as the starting point. A two hour session with the SMT within your institution allows the EAUC and the institution to get a feel for the level of investment and commitment needed to move things forward. This session will also bring the SMT up to speed with sector trends, what HEFCE and the LSC are up to and be valuable even if they do not take the programme any further.

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What does it cost?

Each cost is specific to the institution and will be worked out following initial discussions. This is dependant on which modules you pick and what support is required. A proposal with all costings will be provided after our initial discussions with you. Costs can start from as little as £1250.

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How long does it take?

This of course depends on the modules the institution decides to take and the time commitment involved from both parties. However, if the college or university was keen to go through the whole programme it should take between 6 – 9 months.

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What staff are involved?

This once again depends on the modules but as a rule of thumb a small team will need to be established or utilized if already exists (such as a sustainability team or green team). This team will review materials and input into the approach taken. Senior management is involved at the beginning of the programme – in module 1 and realistically because we are taking a whole institution approach every member of staff will be touched by the project.

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What do I get out of it at the end?

• A clear story to tell about how the institution has systematically looked at sustainability across the institution - this can feed into external reporting initiatives like the BITC Index (Universities that Count).
• A group of enthused individuals across the institution.
• An up to date policy, strategy and institutional action plans.
• A clear way forward to ensure your institution is at the forefront of the sector.
• Clear leadership to your staff and students to show your institution takes sustainability seriously.
• Membership of the Alumni.

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Who delivers it?

The programme is delivered by the EAUC Sustainability Leaders Team who are made up of EAUC staff and retained consultants specializing in working with the sector.

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Who has endorsed the programme?

The Learning and Skills Council (LSC), the Association of Colleges (AoC), the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) and the Associate of University Directors of Estates (AUDE) have all endorsed the programme.

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What further support does EAUC offer?

The Alumini Programme gives you privileged access to key news and insight into sector horizon scanning and agenda setting issues. The EAUC provides a professional development programme to ensure your staff are kept up to date on current issues in the sector. The EAUC Annual Conference is the essential event of the year for the sector, as well as key networking opportunities you will hear the top speakers from the sector and the sustainability world. Membership of the EAUC also provides access to a wide range of resources on our website a highly valued Member Discussion Network which provides answers and support to your every day needs.

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Do I need to be a Member of the EAUC to take part?

No, you do not require to be a Member to take part in the Sustainability Leaders Programme but we do fully recommend that your institution does become a Member to ensure their institution keeps up to date and has access to the support we offer.

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How do I get started on the Programme?

As soon as you get in touch with us to express your interest you will be contacted by one of the EAUC Sustainability Leaders Team, who have expertise and experience in Sustainability and its implementation within institutions. Following this initial chat a draft proposal will be produced for discussion and following agreement by both parties the programme will be delivered on an agreed timescale. You can either ring us on 01242 714321 or email us.

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