From recognising birdsong to tasting fresh honey, students from preschool to Grade 4 at Collège Champittet immersed themselves in the wonders of nature during Earth Week. Guided by birdwatching enthusiast Marc, students in Grades 1 and 2 learned to identify birds by their songs and colours, skills that will be invaluable for future Forest School outings. Meanwhile, preschoolers and Grade 4 students delved into the fascinating world of bees with beekeeper Cédric, enjoying honey tasting sessions. The older students took their learning further by making seed bombs to attract pollinators, while the younger ones crafted beeswax candles. Additionally, 1st-graders embarked on a special outing to Jorat Nature Park, where they used their five senses to explore the forest like woodland creatures, spotting rare butterflies and tasting natural treats like hazelnuts and nettle syrup.
The week was also a platform for creative expression and learning about environmental protection. Students engaged in storytelling, arts and crafts, and even hosted a breakfast for their parents to showcase their newfound knowledge. Grade 3 students read The Wolf Who Loved Trees, a book that inspired discussions on waste, recycling, and planet protection. The primary students explored the four 'R's—Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—through various activities. Some designed posters to promote planetary care, now adorning the school, while others created musical instruments from recycled materials and performed the song 'Save Our Planet' for their younger peers. The Parents’ Association contributed by organizing a book exchange, emphasizing the importance of reusing resources. The week concluded with anticipation for the butterflies expected to emerge in the school garden, symbolizing the growth and learning that took place during Earth Week.
