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BSB firmly embeds green practices and values throughout its curriculum, campus, and broader community. The conviction that learning transcends the physical boundaries of the classroom has led to innovative programmes aimed at empowering students to understand their environmental impact and take meaningful action.

"Learning Without Walls": Connecting with nature

A cornerstone of BSB's educational philosophy is the innovative “Learning without Walls” programme. This outdoor learning initiative takes education into the natural world, offering enriching experiences under the guidance of dedicated teachers and staff. By immersing themselves in outdoor settings on campus like The Glade, their dedicated outdoor nature hub, and the surrounding Tervuren Forest, students develop a deep appreciation for nature and a sense of connection to the natural world.These sessions are carefully designed to complement and enhance the curriculum, providing unique opportunities for students to engage with nature, foster environmental stewardship, and cultivate a diverse set of skills. Activities range from constructing shelters to explore early human adaptation to creating nature-inspired art while delving into scientific concepts, interweaving academic knowledge with hands-on experiences. This approach builds empathy and understanding towards ecological systems from an early age. Outdoor learning also promotes physical play, gross motor skills, creativity, risk-taking, teamwork, and independent learning, contributing to overall well-being.

Sustainability woven into the curriculum

Environmental education at BSB is seamlessly integrated across various disciplines.In Primary, younger students engage in hands-on activities such as gardening, composting, recycling programmes, and outdoor lessons through the “Learning without Walls” initiative. These experiences foster early connections with nature and instil conservation values. Primary students also participate in two outdoor lessons per term through the "Learning without Walls" program.At the Secondary level, sustainability is explored through different subjects. Year 9 students participate in interdisciplinary units on climate change, covering topics like renewable energy, sustainable food systems, and fashion. STEM workshops allow them to develop practical solutions to industry challenges, while geography lessons focus on the impacts of climate change. Art classes encourage creative expression related to environmental themes. Year 8 Geography students have also created art installations and poems on ocean pollution which have been displayed at international events.Additionally, teachers across the school integrate concepts like renewable energy, biodiversity, and climate change into classroom discussions and projects.

Empowering students through action and advocacy

BSB fosters a culture of empowerment and agency, inspiring young minds to take meaningful actions towards a sustainable future.The thriving BSBees eco-club, with 75 dedicated student members, encourages student agency in sustainability through activities like tending the school garden, wildlife projects, creating habitats, organizing fundraisers, and raising awareness. Elsewhere, Year 10 students contribute to sustainability efforts through a Biodiversity Database project.At the Secondary level, the Global Issues Network (GIN) group empowers students to create sustainable solutions for global challenges. Students identify issues they are passionate about and lead campaigns, ranging from conservation efforts to improving cafeteria nutrition. Participating in GIN exposes students to global issues, teaches essential life skills, and connects them with professionals, shaping their sustainability-focused career aspirations.BSB also actively engages with international organisations such as the United Nations Environment Office and the European Union. Students have recently participated in UN Earth Day celebrations, presenting models addressing plastic pollution, and contributed to a Sustainable Textile Event by showcasing upcycled denim outfits. This creative advocacy aims to create a mindset shift.

Recognised leaders in environmental education

BSB's commitment has earned international recognition. In May 2022, BSB was first granted the esteemed Eco-School status, which it holds to this day, and awarded the prestigious Green Flag accreditation for sustainability. BSB was the first international school in Belgium to receive this honour. This achievement followed an intensive program of audits, action plans, and projects addressing sustainability areas such as waste management, energy use, climate change, and global citizenship, with students playing a leading role. Eco-Schools is the largest and oldest recognition of education for sustainable development globally. This status connects BSB with an international community, facilitating the exchange of environmental information and cultural experiences.

Sustainable campus, sustainable future

Beyond the curriculum and student initiatives, BSB has made significant strides towards reducing its environmental footprint through campus-wide initiatives. In March 2025, the school announced the installation of 580 solar panels with an annual production capacity of 233MWh, covering over 20% of its electricity consumption. This investment demonstrates BSB’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure development.

Shaping future leaders and advocates

Through hands-on activities, thoughtful lessons, community initiatives, and international engagement, BSB empowers every student to become a mindful, eco-conscious citizen ready to build a brighter, greener future for all. BSB’s sustainability initiatives aim not only to educate but also to inspire lifelong advocacy for environmental stewardship. Graduates leave BSB equipped with the knowledge and passion for sustainability, often pursuing careers dedicated to preserving the planet.Many students are actively seeking higher education opportunities in fields like Sustainable Development, Urban Planning, and Wildlife Conservation, a significant shift compared to a decade ago. The encouragement and inspiration received throughout their BSB journey, from Primary to Secondary, and through programs like BSB Futures career talks, play a vital role in shaping these aspirations.At BSB, sustainability is embedded in every aspect of school life. It aims to inspire curiosity, foster resilience, and cultivate a lifelong love for learning, alongside a profound respect for our planet. For relocating families seeking an international school that prioritises environmental education and develops students into responsible global citizens, BSB offers a transformative educational journey.Interested in joining the BSB community? Please contact our Admissions team for more details.

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Visit The British School of Brussels' Featured School page

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