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In the heart of Singapore, solar panels sit atop the International French School in Singapore’s (IFS) classroom roofs, capturing the sun’s energy with quiet determination. Below, students move with purpose, their minds filled with ideas and their actions fuelled by a shared commitment to change. Eco-delegates from each class lead diverse projects like recycling programmes.
This is how the winner of the Gold Award for Sustainable International School of the Year became the model of sustainable international education that is inspiring the next generation of eco-conscious leaders.
For the last 50 years, this dynamic, multilingual school has strived to create a dynamic learning environment where students thrive academically, socially and personally. Instilling a sense of purpose is a crucial part of the process, hence IFS’s dedication to fostering environmental consciousness among its students, encouraging them to actively engage in reducing their carbon footprint. Most importantly, it leads by example.
“When discussing sustainability in the context of the school, two key areas are at the forefront of our planning and operations,” says Yves Marcel, Executive Director of IFS. Apart from raising awareness, the school makes recycling and waste reduction a living reality extending beyond classrooms. Yves and his team also focus on the importance of economic sustainability, ensuring responsible financial decisions to support long-term viability while championing sustainable practices.
IFS is renowned for offering a world-class international education at an affordable price to families from across the globe. Source: International French School in Singapore
Through its partnership with TotalEnergies ENEOS, IFS welcomed the installation of 1,180 solar panels across its campus. The project boasted a 0.7 megawatt-peak (MWp) capacity, and the new panels are expected to generate over 900 megawatt-hours (MWh) of renewable electricity annually — equivalent to the average consumption of around 200 households in Singapore.
“We are thrilled to embark on this green journey with TotalEnergies ENEOS,” said Jean-Marc Deromedi, Former President of the School Board. “The installation of solar panels at our school showcases our commitment to sustainability and provides our students with a tangible example of how renewable energy can positively impact our world. We are excited to educate and inspire our students about the importance of clean energy and its role in building a sustainable future.”
Even the youngest get to play a part in contributing to the planet. The up-and-coming IFS Kindergarten BCA Green Mark Platinum (Zero Energy) building was designed to incorporate cutting-edge green technology, including rainwater harvesting systems and energy-efficient lighting. This zero-energy marvel will be the first of its kind in Singapore.
The building is set to maximise natural light and ventilation, minimising reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning. Its innovative use of photovoltaic panels ensures zero reliance on fossil fuels, while rainwater harvesting systems reduce dependence on Singapore’s public water supply, conserving this precious resource. Scheduled for completion in 2025, the IFS Kindergarten already stands out for winning the BCA Green Mark Platinum Zero Energy Certification, Singapore’s highest rating for sustainable buildings.
Over 80 nationalities are represented at IFS. Source: International French School in Singapore
Within this space, young learners will learn the importance of becoming responsible stewards of the environment, equipped with the knowledge and skills to effect real change in their communities. At IFS, nobody is too young to explore the ins and outs of renewable energy, waste reduction and green living.
“IFS has integrated ecological sustainability into its primary and secondary school curriculum,” saysYves. “In the classroom, students are taught the basics of environmental science, exploring topics such as climate change, air pollution, and species diversity. They also learn how to reduce their own impacts, such as conserving energy and recycling.”
With information comes power. IFS students have several opportunities to put these theories into action. Each year, each class elects a student eco-delegate. These individuals play a key role in promoting sustainability and mobilising their peers. They collaborate with stakeholders to organise waste reduction campaigns and advocate for energy conservation, among others. None of it would be possible without the feedback and ideas they collect from their classmates and convey to the school administration.
Recently, Grade 12 delegates worked with elementary students to mentor younger ones on climate change and sustainable development. With a little creativity and a lot of engaging activities, they helped their juniors better understand complex environmental concepts and how they can make a difference in their daily lives.
Lena and Robin, who are both in Grade 10, are two examples of how IFS’s commitment to a greener future rubs off on students. In March 2023, they took part in the international Hackathon Water4future competition. Their submission was ingenious: a building that collects rainwater to feed a walled garden and generate additional electricity.
From Lena and Robinto, all its eco-delegates, these agents of change are set to lead a future where sustainability is not just a choice but a way of life. Their catalyst? IFS. To learn more about joining them, click here.
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