From July 13 to 21, 2025, ten second-year IB Course students participated in a 9-day environmental field program on Chichijima in the Ogasawara Islands as part of the special “CASx” program. Now in its fifth year, this program is designed to provide hands-on support for the International Baccalaureate’s “CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service)” component.

CAS is a unique IB program that encourages students to grow through experiences beyond academics, focusing on creativity, physical activity, and service. Through these activities, students develop self-awareness, empathy, responsibility, and a strong sense of social contribution—skills that cannot be gained solely in the classroom.

“Living Learning” on a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Island

Chichijima is a remote island that takes about 24 hours to reach by boat from Tokyo. Often described as “more distant than foreign countries,” it offers a uniquely isolated ecosystem. Immersed in this rich natural environment, the students engaged deeply in experiential learning outside the classroom.

With support from the Ogasawara Marine Center, students participated in various conservation activities, including sea turtle hatching and release, nighttime nesting patrols, egg protection work, and tank and shell cleaning. They also learned through visits to the Ogasawara World Heritage Center and Visitor Center, forest fieldwork, starwatching, snorkeling, and dolphin swimming. These diverse experiences enriched their understanding of the island’s nature, culture, and ecosystem.

Inspiring Encounters and Life-Changing Learning

During their stay, students also had the chance to interact with researchers and volunteers from across Japan and abroad. Hearing firsthand from people working in marine biology and environmental conservation had a strong emotional impact. Many students expressed that they were inspired to pursue similar careers or return to the island as volunteers in the future, naturally connecting their learning to their personal dreams.

“Authentic Learning” That Can Only Be Gained in the Field

What the students gained was more than just knowledge—it was authentic learning born from direct encounters with nature and meaningful human connections. Seeing the life of sea turtles up close and learning about the global challenge of protecting endangered species helped students internalize the importance of environmental stewardship.

Chichijima: A Second Hometown in Their Hearts

As they boarded the ship home, the students tearfully said goodbye to the staff and local residents who had gathered to see them off, shouting in unison, “Thank you!” Their heartfelt farewells showed just how deeply the experience had touched them—Chichijima had become a cherished “second hometown.”

Through this program, students not only discovered the essence of learning but also gained valuable insight into their futures. There is no doubt that this experience will continue to shape their journeys moving forward.