Building a Lifelong Commitment to Service in London

One of the key benefits of the IB curriculum is its emphasis on service learning. By weaving community engagement into education, the IB framework helps students connect what they learn in the classroom to real-world issues. This approach not only enriches their academic journey, but also builds responsibility and global citizenship. Taking action starts from the very beginning through initiatives like the Junior School’s Little Lions Angels. This after-school club allows students to volunteer in the Nursery, where they spend time playing with and supporting the younger children. Contributing to the well-being of the Nursery children helps them practice kindness and empathy.

In the Senior School, service learning is integrated across the whole Middle Years Program, with each subject featuring community projects. For example:

• Mathematics: Designing infographics on food security

• Design: Creating innovative tools for people with disabilities to help with daily challenges

• Science: Raising awareness of the potential harm of electromagnetic radiation

In the Diploma Program, service learning continues through the Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) program. This year, students have undertaken impactful projects such as collections for Food Bank Aid, a charity partner we hold regular food donation drives for, and starting a Japanese club for Junior School students. This promotes cultural exchange, allowing students to share their culture and language with younger peers.

On a larger scale, Service Day is our big celebration of what it truly means to be an IB school. This annual event brings the entire school community together for handson initiatives like environmental clean-ups and supporting residents in care homes.

We also recently ran a clothing donation drive, making a difference locally, globally, and environmentally. The donated clothes are sold at affordable prices in the UK and abroad, providing access to low-cost clothing while reducing fast fashion industry waste. The funds from these sales are then donated locally to Finchley Food Bank. Through service learning, students are equipped with critical skills such as problem-solving, communication, and empathy. These experiences empower them to make a positive difference in their communities and inspire a lifelong commitment to service beyond the classroom.

MP Visits to Celebrate UK’s First All-Electric School Transport Solution

Local Member of the UK Parliament (MP) Catherine West recently visited our campus to celebrate the successful expansion of our allelectric school bus service, marking two years of commitment to sustainability. This milestone comes as we add two additional electric minibuses to our service, ensuring that all school bus routes are entirely net-zero emissions.

In the past two years, we have reduced CO2 emissions by 30 tonnes annually, equivalent to over 30 passenger flights between London and New York. The service has also eliminated the need for over 36,000 car journeys, alleviating congestion and reducing air pollution in the local area.