Nexus International School’s (Singapore) unwavering commitment to eco-friendliness through its innovative Care Movement is one of the reasons it’s our Sustainable International School of the Year 2023.
We are so happy that Nexus International School (Singapore) has been awarded GOLD in the Sustainable International School of the Year category of our Singapore Education Awards 2023.
As the world continues to face climate change-related challenges, it has become more important than ever for our kids to learn how to take care of our planet and preserve it for future generations. It’s no surprise that top international schools in Singapore are working their way towards a greener, more sustainable future. Nexus leads by paving the way as Sustainable International School of the Year!
Why is Nexus the Sustainable International School of the Year?
In the education landscape, Nexus is a trailblazer in sustainability. So it’s no wonder that the school’s been crowned the Sustainable International School of the Year. Nexus has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to eco-friendliness through its innovative Care Movement, curriculum integration, learner-driven initiatives, and various sustainable school projects. The school’s various initiatives emphasise environmental responsibility and global citizenship.
1. The Care Movement: a catalyst for change
At the heart of Nexus’s sustainability endeavours is the Care Movement, which seeks to empower learners by letting them realise their ability to actuate change and be the difference that the world needs. As such, the school actively promotes eco-friendly practices and raises awareness about pressing environmental issues, weaving these themes into its curriculum and extracurricular activities. In this way, the Care Movement is a fine example of the school’s commitment to environmental responsibility and global citizenship.
One noteworthy stride in Nexus’s journey towards sustainability is the establishment of the Care for World Ambassadors. These ambassadors are empowered to take proactive steps in safeguarding the planet. They become catalysts for change within the school community and champions of global causes, addressing issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and challenges faced by marginalised communities.
For example, as part of the Care for World initiative, the school held a sustainability week in September this year, where learners participated in activities such as pedalling a smoothie bike to promote clean energy, planting new seeds in the herb garden, a beach clean up and more.
2. Nurturing a mini-circular economy
The school’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the classroom, as evidenced by establishing a mini-circular economy in its gardens. Nexus embraces organic farming, hydroponic cultivation, and vermicomposting, fostering self-sufficiency and environmental responsibility.
For example, Nexus has a co-curricular Activity (CCA) named The Green Guardians, where learners actively participate in tending to the school gardens by planting and harvesting produce. The harvested goods are partially utilised in the school cafeteria and the rest are sold to the community. The funds raised are then reinvested in buying seeds and equipment. This initiative promotes a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture, self-sufficiency, and environmental stewardship among learners and the Nexus community.
Learners actively engage in these processes, with many taking leadership roles in driving these initiatives forward.
3. Recycling revolutionised: a community effort
Nexus has also implemented targeted recycling initiatives on its campus. Specialised bins for clothing, specific plastic bottles, and electronic waste have been strategically placed to make recycling more accessible and convenient for everyone. This approach reduces waste and instils collective responsibility among the Nexus community of learners, families, and faculty.
In a bold move towards renewable energy, Nexus recently installed several solar panels. This leap allows the school to consume energy from a clean and renewable source, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. This initiative showcases Nexus’s commitment to sustainability and sets an inspiring example for other educational institutions.
There you have it: sustainability isn’t just a buzzword at Nexus!
As you can see, sustainability is a way of life ingrained throughout the school. Environmental awareness and responsibility take centre stage, shaping the mindset of the future generation. Nexus provides real-life learning opportunities through facilities like gardens, composting systems, and solar panels. Learners actively participate in sustainable processes, gaining insights into biology, life cycles, and entrepreneurship.
Nexus stands tall as the Sustainable International School of the Year because of its comprehensive and multi-faceted commitment to creating a sustainable school. As we celebrate Nexus’s achievements, it is evident that sustainability isn’t just a goal for the school; it’s a way of being, and Nexus is leading the way. Nexus also secured the Silver Award in the Student Wellbeing category of the Singapore Education Awards 2023.
This post is in partnership with Nexus International School (Singapore).