Year 5 explore sustainable solutions through IPQ programme

For the first time in Habs history, our Year 5 pupils from Habs Girls and Habs Boys embarked on their Independent Project Qualification (IPQ) programme, an initiative designed to immerse pupils in real-world challenges through project-based learning. We have introduced the programme in our curriculum to encourage creativity, critical thinking and collaboration, giving pupils the tools to become future-ready learners. Due to the number of students enrolled in the programme, we have also been awarded the Independent Schools Education Board IPQ Gold Award.

This year, the focus of the IPQ is fast fashion, a pressing global issue linked to sustainability and landfill waste. Pupils were divided into groups and tasked with identifying specific problems within the topic, then research innovative solutions.

Over several weeks, the pupils conducted in-depth research and developed proposals, which they presented in Dragon’s Den style pitches to volunteer parents and teachers acting as the Dragons. The presentations sparked insightful questions, feedback and discussions, helping pupils to reflect on the feasibility and impact of their ideas.

Some of the imaginative solutions included:

• Pyjama sets with detachable arms and legs, designed to be worn all year round and reduce the need for seasonal sleepwear
• Detachable shirt and skirt combinations, enabling mix-and-match outfits and reducing the need for multiple items of clothing
• Repurposing unused horse gear into wearable clothing, giving old materials a new life

Following the Dragon’s Den presentations, pupils reflected on the feedback they received and planned next steps – creating prototypes and preparing their products for an upcoming expo, where they will showcase their sustainable fashion solutions to the wider school community.

The IPQ programme not only challenges pupils to tackle real-world problems but also nurtures confidence, leadership and reflective thinking. As these Year 5 pupils continue to develop their projects, they are gaining invaluable skills that will empower them to shape a more sustainable future.