At LIS, Wednesday afternoons are set aside for Exploration Hours—a special time for students in Grades 3 to 5 to dive into topics they are passionate about. Students choose a theme and develop a project over six weeks, encouraging creativity, responsibility, and collaboration.
One of the consistently popular themes since the program’s beginning has been Gardening, Sustainability, and Environmental Protection. Over the years, many students have taken part in this theme, resulting in a variety of creative and meaningful green projects. Here are just a few highlights:
Planting Bushes for Butterflies
Three students wanted to plant trees on school grounds. After discussions with the school management, garden coordinator, and Hort team, they agreed on a plan to plant five butterfly-friendly bushes in large planters in the schoolyard. The students organized a bake sale to raise funds—successfully collecting €380. The bushes now decorate the schoolyard and attract pollinators.
Insect Hotels for the Farmers Market
Inspired by the LIS Farmers Market, another group decided to build insect hotels. These were sold during the May market and raised around €30. Not only did they support local biodiversity, but the students also learned about eco-friendly product design and entrepreneurship.
Coral Awareness & Art
Two students researched coral reefs and the threats they face worldwide. They created an educational art exhibition and raised €30 in donations, which they contributed to the environmental initiative Coral Gardeners—helping to support coral reef restoration efforts.
Green Reporters Project
A larger group of students became “Green Reporters,” filming and interviewing students and staff about environmental topics. Working together with the LIS Film Club, they began developing a Green Team Show, promoting awareness and student voice around sustainability.
Working in the LIS School Garden
Spring brought students outdoors to get hands-on in the school garden. They sifted compost to create rich soil, planted tomatoes, beans, peppers, cucumbers, and squash, and helped with weeding and general garden care. As temperatures rose, watering became a key daily task. The experience brought joy, responsibility, and a deeper connection to nature.
A Birdhouse with a Twist
Three students designed and built a unique birdhouse from scratch—including a rain gutter to collect water for birds to drink. With support from Mr. Andresen, they completed the structure after many hours of work, and it will soon be installed in the LIS garden.
Designing Rooftop Planters
Three girls created colorful designs for the rooftop planter pots. After a school-wide vote, the winning designs were carefully painted onto the pots, bringing new life and personality to the rooftop garden.
Butterfly Garden Display
Two students researched butterflies and created an informative display board, now installed in the LIS butterfly garden. The display helps visitors learn more about local species and how we can protect them.
Researching Ideas on Plastic-Free Lunchboxes
Another group brainstormed ideas about how to pack plastic-free lunchboxes. They put their ideas into a PowerPoint presentation and presented it to their friends and families.
Exploration Hours continue to empower students to lead projects that make a difference on campus and beyond. Through hands-on experiences, they gain skills in teamwork, creativity, environmental awareness, and initiative. We’re proud of what they’ve accomplished so far and excited for what’s to come!