As we know, schools shape young minds and can foster responsible sustainable behaviour. Given the undeniable significance of this, SIS Swiss International School has implemented a programme to form a strong network of eco-conscious schools that educate and practice environmental stewardship.
At SIS, sustainability thrives across operations and the curriculum. Each school has a sustainability lead teacher to support a team of students who independently implement the SIS Sustainability Framework through an action learning approach. Our students have completed full sustainability audits of their sites, subsequently created a five-year plan for action and galvanised their fellow school members in to action. Pupil power is absolutely at the forefront here as the students research, action and continually reflect on projects which are a product of their own thinking and manifestation.
Empowering Students to Lead Sustainability Initiatives
We are extremely proud of our sustainability team. Motivated through assemblies and a “Green Team Newspaper” the school community has already begun to recycle paper and plastic and to plant greenery. We have switched to LED lighting to reduce energy consumption and our school’s carbon footprint by making environmentally conscious choices. Such measures educate our students about resource conservation and encourage them to bring in the wider school community by adopting similar practices at home.
An inspiring example of our work is the triumph in the 23rd national Recycling-Art competition. With enthusiastic support and assistance from our sustainability lead teacher, the team produced “Lady Recycle” a sculpture made only of already used materials, winning first place. This was a huge testament to the power of collaboration – which is so embedded in the sustainable thinking agenda!
A sustainable school hinges on school-community dedication. Together we are raising and improving the environmental consciousness of all.