The Green School, a unique educational establishment scattered across various global locations, which boasts a particularly enchanting campus in Bali. My dad, an advocate of homeschooling, believed that a visit could provide us with new insights into alternative educational practices. Nestled in the heart of a lush jungle, the Green School embraces its surroundings to enhance learning, emphasising a connection with nature—a vital element often absent in modern education.

Upon our arrival, it was impossible not to feel immediately immersed in the environment. The school, true to its name, is integrated seamlessly into the wild jungle setting, complete with the ever-present buzz of mosquitoes, which we were told are part of the jungle’s ecosystem and not to be disturbed by insecticides. This philosophy of maintaining harmony with nature, despite the discomfort it might bring, was a recurring theme throughout our visit.

Gathering in a typical meeting area for parents, the ambient sounds of crickets and the rustle of leaves punctuated a sense of peace, disturbed occasionally by a refreshing breeze that seemed to sweep away our concerns, intensified slightly by the humid heat. Our tour began amidst a swarm of those persistent mosquitoes. One of our first stops was a large quartz rock known as the ‘healing stone.’ According to legend, touching the stone and making a wish would make it come true. In light-hearted spirits, I wished for the mosquitoes to spare us—unfortunately to no avail.

We descended the hillside, finding the path wilder than expected. There was no concrete path, just a trail laid with pebbles, winding through dense vegetation. As we carefully navigated the uneven terrain, we encountered some of the students’ pet animals. A friendly cow ambled past, and further along, we spotted the elementary area where children played and learned amid the lush surroundings. Eventually, we reached the outdoor science laboratory, an impressive structure built entirely from bamboo. Here, students were deeply engaged in experiments with biodegradable materials, including a stool fashioned from a special type of mushroom, showcasing the school’s commitment to sustainability.

Our path then led us to the school’s assembly area, an architectural marvel of bamboo that wove overhead in intricate patterns, forming stairways and platforms. At one side, a large gong was struck daily at 2 p.m., signalling a pause in all activities, even the reflexive swatting of mosquitoes, for a two-minute meditation session. This practice of mindfulness seemed designed to ground everyone in the reality of the moment, making their sticky social situations seem trivial in comparison with their actual environment.

Our tour concluded, but we lingered to explore a humble sports complex that included both an indoor basketball/futsal court and an expansive outdoor football pitch. The sight of a football on the sidelines was too tempting to resist. Soon, I found myself engaged in one on one matches with other children who participated in the tour, relishing the freedom and joy of play in such an idyllic setting.
 

Overall, the Green School offered a glimpse into an education system that prioritises environmental harmony and personal growth over conventional schooling methods. It was an environment that felt unrestricted and nurturing. While learning in a jungle may seem impractical in today’s modern world, it raises a thought-provoking question: how much of what we learn in traditional schools is truly practical for our futures? Instead of fixating on future concerns like money and security, the Green School encourages students to find meaning in the present moment, emphasising the importance of mindfulness and personal fulfilment over conventional measures of success.