The International School of Nice Receives Blue School Certification for “Flood the School” Programme
The International School of Nice Receives Blue School Certification for “Flood the School” Programme
Melanie Laroche and Michelle van Buuren
ISN is proud to announce that it has received the European Blue School certification for its Flood the School programme, recognising the school’s commitment to marine education and environmental stewardship. This prestigious certification highlights ISN’s dedication to fostering a deep connection between students and the Mediterranean marine environment.
"Becoming a European Blue School reflects our commitment to sustainability by equipping students with the knowledge and skills to understand the ocean’s critical role in our planet’s future. This initiative inspires them to take action as responsible stewards of our blue planet," shared Mélanie Laroche, ISN Science Coordinator and Sustainability and Eco School Coordinator.
At the heart of ISN’s European Blue School journey is the Flood the School initiative. This immersive programme combines science, creativity, and environmental stewardship to provide hands-on learning experiences that inspire and empower students. Through the Marine Learning Programme, students from Kindergarten to Middle School engage in workshops tailored to their developmental stages, exploring themes such as marine biodiversity, sustainable practices, and conservation efforts.
"The Flood the School project is a year-round educational programme that engages students from Kindergarten to Middle School in exploring and protecting the Mediterranean Sea. Through themed lessons, interactive workshops, and hands-on activities, the programme fosters environmental awareness and encourages students to become future leaders in marine conservation," explained Lydia Mc Knight, ISN Science Teacher and Marine Programme Workshop Leader.
Central to the programme is the Marine Learning Hub, a vibrant, immersive space designed to inspire curiosity and creativity while educating students about the Mediterranean marine environment. The hub is equipped with marine reference books, species guides, multilingual literature, and interactive materials, offering a dynamic learning environment where students can explore marine ecosystems and display their projects related to marine conservation. Featuring ambient lighting, engaging decor with marine colours, and even a small aquarium, the hub provides a unique space for exploration and learning.
The programme includes hands-on workshops designed to inspire action. In the first workshop, students discover the biodiversity of the Mediterranean, learning about key species and ecosystems. The second workshop focuses on addressing marine challenges, such as pollution and overfishing, encouraging students to develop solutions. The final workshop connects students with the ocean through fieldwork and expert discussions, deepening their appreciation of the environment.
ISN Grade 12 Student Uliana shared, “The Blue School certification is a fantastic initiative by the European Commission, and we as a school community are overjoyed that our efforts to promote ocean-related initiatives and learning were recognised in such an amazing way.”
The Flood the School initiative goes beyond education. It fosters curiosity, responsibility, and a lifelong connection to the ocean. As a Gold Eco-School, ISN continues to demonstrate its ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental education. This certification reflects our dedication to inspiring students to become passionate advocates for the protection and preservation of the Mediterranean and the planet.
Through the Flood the School programme, ISN is making a lasting impact, shaping responsible citizens who are ready to lead the way in marine conservation. Together, we can build a sustainable future for our oceans and inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.