Outcomes First Group joins UN Global Compact Network UK

Outcomes First Group (OFG) has joined the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), becoming part of the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative and formally committing to align its operations with globally recognised principles on human rights, environmental responsibility, labour standards and ethical governance.

For a leading education provider operating across the UK, the move signals a clear step:  strengthening its approach to sustainability, safeguarding and inclusion through participation in an internationally recognised framework.

The UN Global Compact connects more than 20,000 organisations worldwide through ten shared principles and requires participating companies to publish an annual Communication on Progress outlining their actions.

“Joining the UN Global Compact is about accountability,” said Astrid D’Amelio, Head of Sustainability at OFG. “It connects the values guiding our work across schools – safeguarding, inclusion, wellbeing and responsibility – to a recognised global framework.”

From estates to classrooms

The announcement builds on practical action already underway.

Over the past year, OFG has invested more than £1 million in sustainability-linked capital projects, delivering 52 initiatives across its estate as part of its broader decarbonisation and learning environment programme – including forest schools, sensory gardens, biodiversity areas, polytunnels and outdoor learning environments co-designed with pupils.

In summer 2025, solar installations were completed at four schools – Acorn Park (Norfolk), Lamledge and Smallbrook (Shropshire), and Bankside (Worcestershire). Together they generate around 273,000 kWh annually and reduce Scope 2 emissions by approximately 61 tonnes of CO₂e per year.

The Group has begun transitioning its fleet, replacing 42 vehicles with electric alternatives and installing charging infrastructure across sites as part of its longer-term decarbonisation roadmap.

Pupil impact in practice

At Waterloo Lodge, pupils transformed an unused area into a working polytunnel, learning about food growing, sustainability and wellbeing through hands-on outdoor education.

At Manor House School, students designed, built and raced a Greenpower electric kit car, developing engineering knowledge, teamwork and problem-solving skills linked to low-carbon technology.

 These projects demonstrate how environmental themes are increasingly integrated into school life, supporting curriculum delivery and pupil development alongside wider educational priorities.

Governance and growth

Environmental action sits alongside OFG’s established focus on safeguarding, inclusion and staff wellbeing. The Group has been certified a Great Place to Work for six consecutive years.

Participation in the UNGC includes annual public reporting through its Communication on Progress and ongoing efforts to align with its ten principles, reinforcing responsible governance as the organisation continues to grow.

Alongside environmental initiatives, OFG continues to prioritise safeguarding, workforce wellbeing, inclusive education and ethical governance. Sustainability at OFG is approached holistically spanning people, operations and long-term resilience.

As D’Amelio concludes: “Responsible education means preparing young people for the future while operating responsibly in the present. This commitment strengthens both.”