Recruiting schools for 2028 SuDS for Schools programme

We’re getting towards the end of Phase 2 in our SUDS for Schools programme in East Sussex. We’d like to share what’s been happening, and invite other schools to explore taking part in 2028.

SuDS stands for Sustainable Drainage Systems; ways to capture, save and slow the flow of rainwater, whilst creating greener, more wildlife-friendly areas.

Each participating school gains a mix of SuDS that fit their needs (planters, water-butts, rain gardens etc.) These include ‘bespoke’ ones inspired by pupils’ designs, created during engagement activities.

We’re putting together a bid that would ensure full funding for projects in 2028 for participating schools. You’ll find more information about the programme at the bottom of this post.

If you’d like to put your school forward, please email us at SuDS4Schools@eastsussex.gov.uk by October 16th.

Feedback from school participating in Phase 2 of SuDS for Schools

“The bird planter is undoubtedly the star of the show. The children who were involved in designing it are absolutely delighted and so proud to see their ideas brought to life in such a wonderful way. It has already become a real talking point around the school.”
St. Leonards Church of England Primary Academy

“The students have been using them every day and asking questions, the year 7 and 8 designers are walking tall so it’s been a really successful project. We really appreciate how much planning, time and effort has gone into this from all the groups involved.”
Willingdon Community School

Further information about the SuDS for Schools programme

The programme is fully funded (previously funded through a combination of Department for Education (DfE), Defra, Environment Agency and Southern Water contributions).   The programme is fully managed by the ESCC Project team and follows the phases below (although these may be subject to change in future phases):

  1. School Site Survey:   Undertaken by the project team, mapping the school site in relation to potential SuDS locations (in collaboration with the school)
  2. Pupil Engagement Session:  Fully resourced and delivered by the team, including outdoor learning sessions exploring water flow and understanding the role of SuDS in climate resilience.  These can be tailored to meet the school’s needs.
  3. Design workshops:  Pupils use their knowledge of SuDS to design their ideal contributions to their school
  4. Design: Working with the design team, the pupils’  ideas are integrated into the survey results to provide a draft design for the school
  5. School Design Sign off:  School reviews and signs off the final design
  6. Installation:  SuDS are installed on school grounds
  7. Maintenance: A maintenance manual with guidance is provided
  8. Follow-up Engagement: Pupil workshops involving the SuDS at their schools to foster their ownership and understanding of them.

If you would like to submit an expression of interest from your school, please email SuDS4Schools@eastsussex.gov.uk by October 16th 2026 to be included in the potential list of schools. 

Schools will be notified in 2027 whether they have been successful in joining the project, subject to confirmation of initial funding.