Schoolprojects 2022

Sustainable Education for a Future-Oriented Society: Projects by Next Level e.V. in Thuringia

At Next Level e.V., we understand education as a fundamental component of sustainable transformations. We go beyond the mere transmission of knowledge and aim to actively involve young people in change processes through practical, solution-oriented approaches. Our goal is not only to impart knowledge but also to empower them to independently develop and implement creative ideas. We place particular emphasis on sustainability, intercultural education, and the promotion of practical skills.

In 2022, we initiated various sustainable education projects at schools in Erfurt and Thuringia, creating numerous impactful learning experiences. Here is an overview of the highlights of our actions:

1. Sustainable Schoolyard Design: Upcycling and Crafting 

   At two schools, the Lyonel Feininger Gymnasium in Mellingen and the Marie-Elise Kayser School, we organized project days focused on the sustainable design of schoolyards in 2022. Students had the opportunity to build pallet furniture in hands-on workshops—ranging from classic seating furniture to beach chairs and even a swapping shelf. Through non-formal educational offerings, we taught techniques from the areas of upcycling, design, and craftsmanship, allowing students to turn their creative ideas into tangible, functional objects. As a result, not only did green and sustainable oases emerge on the schoolyards, but students also gained awareness of the importance of resource conservation and creative reuse.

    

2. Waste and Environmental Awareness at GEM04 

   At the Gemeinschaftsschule Am Großen Herrenberg (GEM04), we held a project day on the theme of waste and environmental awareness. Seven specialists worked with 7th-grade students to raise awareness about the waste problem of our time and develop ideas for follow-up projects. In various creative workshops, students designed posters and signs, made stop-motion films, and created a “waste map.” This project day served as the kick-off event for a larger campaign addressing the waste issue and promoting sustainable solutions and action approaches.

3. “Sustainably in Balance”: A Project for Body and Environment 

   At the GS3 Am Kleinen Herrenberg, 2nd-grade students participated in five project days under the theme “Sustainably in Balance.” The focus was on waste and health, with the initial project days addressing the balance between movement and relaxation. Through creative movement games, breathing exercises, and yoga sessions, the children got to know their bodies better and promoted their health. On subsequent days, they built balance boards and practiced a balance choreography, which not only taught them practical craftsmanship skills but also fostered a sense of respect for natural materials and resources.

4. Transcultural Education at the Otto-Lilienthal School 

   Another significant theme that we addressed at the Otto-Lilienthal School in Erfurt was transcultural education. As part of the “Festival of Diversity,” Next Level e.V. organized intercultural music workshops where students could learn about music traditions from various cultures. The workshops not only promoted intercultural competence but also created a space for exchange and mutual understanding—a crucial step towards an open, inclusive society.

5. Engagement for the Biotope at IGS23 Erfurt

   In July 2022, we conducted another project day in the biotope at IGS23 Erfurt. Together with students from grades 5 to 10, and with guidance from our team members as well as school teachers, several projects were carried out in the biotope: plants were planted, garden beds were created, and existing structures were maintained. Cleaning up and waste disposal were also part of the activities. This was not only a valuable ecological action but also gave students the opportunity to actively contribute to the protection and care of their environment.

6. Regular After-School Clubs: Biotope and Woodworking Clubs at IGS23 

   In addition to project days, we offer two weekly after-school clubs at IGS23, providing students with long-term, hands-on learning opportunities. In the Biotope Club, students not only care for the biotope but also engage creatively with natural materials. In the Woodworking Club, participants learn practical skills and work on upcycling projects. Both clubs strengthen students’ practical abilities and contribute to raising awareness of sustainable lifestyles.