Sustainability is a core pillar at Esprit Scholen. We prepare our students for the future while taking responsibility in the here and now. In our teaching, our collaborations, and our environment, we make sustainable choices that contribute to a better world. Be inspired by the examples already happening in our schools.
Esprit Scholen is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals through its own Sustainability Plan. We take a broad, integrated approach, focusing on:
- what we teach — embedding sustainability throughout the curriculum
- how we teach - using pedagogy and didactics that promote social and ecological sustainability
- where we teach — striving for climate-neutral buildings and circular operations
- Who we learn from — supporting professional development for staff
- Who we learn with - engaging with our local environment
In the coming years, we will continue this work through initiatives such as the Sustainable Teacher Network, encouraging students to take responsibility both in and around school, forming Green Teams, and developing a multi-year sustainability investment plan for our school buildings.
Through professional development and participation in networks, we emphasise collaboration and growth. This is not only engaging and challenging, but also actively sought by our students.
Google Classroom
In the Google Classroom, we are building a shared database of teaching materials that can be used to design lessons on sustainability. You will also find workshops, resources, tips, and events that may be of interest to you as a teacher.
Sustainable Teacher Network
‘Within this network, you meet passionate teachers with inspiring initiatives and a clear vision for the future.’ - Felix Spee
The Sustainable Teacher Network brings together 40 teachers from Esprit Scholen who are interested in sustainability. It serves as a hub of ideas, energy, and expertise. Once per season, members come together to share experiences and inspire one another.
Sustainability Fund
To bring sustainable ideas to life, our College van Bestuur established the Sustainability Fund. Each year, €100,000 is made available to support the best initiatives to make Esprit Scholen even greener and more socially responsible. Students, teachers, and school leaders can participate. Applications must be submitted by the school leader. Deadline: 1 december 2025.
Sustainability Coordinator
Marlise Achterbergh is our SustainabilityCoordinator, a role she fulfills with intrinsic motivation and great dedication. Drawing on her background as a teacher, she is frequently invited to contribute ideas for study days or other sustainability initiatives at the schools.
m.achterbergh@cb.espritscholen.nl
The Esprit Academy
The Esprit Academy is more than just a learning platform. It is a place where we connect, learn from one another, and develop ourselves and our schools. Fun and educational, it helps us stay energised and connected in times of significant challenges.
The Academy also offers a wide range of sustainability workshops.
Outside Education
Take your class into nature. By focusing on nature connection, your students gain an additional teacher: nature itself. Numerous studies show that outdoor education positively impacts the wellbeing of both teachers and students. It also promotes environmentally conscious behavior and enhances cognitive performance. Simply put, outdoor learning brings nothing but benefits.
September 25
- 23: Inspiration morning for school leaders on sustainable procurement
- 26: Climate Game NatuurHub Amsterdam
- 29: Thematic meeting: Learning for Sustainable Development (Primary Education)
Oktober 25
- 4–7: Workshop Didactic Bricks
- 10: Sustainability Festival Leren Voor Morgen & Eco-Schools
- 31: Esprit Day (workshops on sustainability)
November 25
- 3: Network Day for Teacher Educators
- 11: Autumn meeting Sustainable Teachers Network
- 18: Healthy School Canteen meeting at Mundus
December 25
- 4: Facilities Staff Meeting at Berlage Lyceum
- 15: Deadline for Sustainability Fund applications
- 18: Sustainable Clothing Market Cartesius Lyceum
Januari 26
- 19: Start of the workshop Animal, Nature and Humans (Esprit Academy)
- 23: National Conference Nature as a Rich Learning Environment
- 27: AICS Eco Vision Day
Februari 26
- 3: Winter meeting Sustainable Teachers Network
- 10: Announcement of the Sustainability Fund allocations
- 28: Esprit Schools becomes a founding member of NEON
Maart 26
- 9: Eva Meijer at Het 4e Gymnasium
- 18: MSL plants a food forest garden
- 19–27: Week of the Circular Economy
- 26: Sustainable Teacher Award Ceremony
- 26: Eco Exchange Danish School DENISE en AICS
April 26
- 7: National Outdoor Learning Day
- 8: Sustainable Teachers Network meeting
- 10: Conference on Sustainability Didactics
- 14: Management Team inspiration morning on Planetary Citizenship
- 14: Berlage visit to Waag Futurelab
Mei 26
- 6: Kick-off Young Changemakers MDT Spring High
- 29: NIBI Conference Tot op de Bodem
Juni 26
- 1: Summer meeting Sustainable Teachers Network
- 1–7: Zero Waste Week
- 5: World Environment Day
- 28: Mud Day
Juli 26
- Vacation
Augustus 26
- Vacation
Read more
- Sustainability Plan
- Esprit Scholen won the SustainaBul VO in 2023 and 2025
- Winter Meeting Sustainable Teacher Network 2025