Thanks to the generous donations of local businesses, including Sustainable Backwell and Backwell Climate Action, the wider community, including Bristol Airport, Backwell Parish Council, Lawlight and Taylor Wimpey.   Parents and pupils at West Leigh Infants were able to raise the funds through sponsored events.  The Lighthouse Schools Partnership also donated a sum towards the project.

A total of £29,650 was raised to pay for the install of Solar panels on the school.

This will mean savings of thousands of pounds from their energy bills, with the money being directed back into school and education.

“We are delighted and so grateful with the support we’ve received from the local community and would like to thank all the partners who’ve supported in whatever way.  Directly funding the solar system means we’ll be able see more significant savings for the school,” said Avril Steel, School Business Manager.

“It’s a delight to see the school and wider community work so hard to d hard work behind this project come to fruition. By looking at this funding model, we’re able to demonstrate our commitment to sustainability, support learning opportunity for pupils, as well as insulate the school from future utility price increases.”   Stephanie Franklin, Sustainability Lead, Lighthouse Schools Partnership Trust.

The 72-panel installation was completed ahead of May half term, just in time to maximise the benefit of the sunnier days.

On Thursday 9 July the school celebrated with a solar launch open house, to say thank you to all of the parties involved in supporting the project.  

Nick Webster – Headteacher gave a speech to thank the donors who made the project possible.  There was a display with information about the solar panels. This included comparing the consumption in June 2025 and June 2026. In June 2025 the school used 3,350 kw.  In June 2026 with solar panels operating for one month the school used 1,073 kw.  Using 1/3 of energy from the previous year. 

Parents and children joined in and everyone celebrated with squash and cake.

A plaque has been made to remember the generous donations and this will hang near the front entrance to the school. 

The school are now just waiting for the system to be linked to grid, which should hopefully create an income for the school.