Early October means Project-Based Learning Week (PBL) at UWC Red Cross Nordic. This year, students took the lead, with staff supporting them in planning, budgeting and execution. Many more projects took place off campus than in previous years, creating opportunities to learn with organisations and communities across Norway.
Second-year students designed and facilitated projects involving first-year students, taking responsibility for turning their interests into meaningful shared experiences. From organising activities to adapting plans, the process made leadership a practical part of learning.
Cleaning the West coast in Norway
Environmental projects included collecting marine litter along Norway’s coastline and exploring sustainability initiatives with organisations in Oslo. On campus, the Eco-Room project encouraged more responsible everyday habits around waste, water and energy.
Other groups explored accessibility, democracy and Indigenous rights. Students investigated accessibility in Oslo and considered how to make RCN more inclusive. Visits to the 22 July Centre and the Norwegian Center for Holocaust and Minority Studies prompted reflection on prejudice and democratic responsibility, while encounters with Sámi institutions and schools deepened students’ understanding of the Nordic region.
RCN delegation in the Sámi Parliament, the Sametinget
Humanitarian projects connected learning with service. Students volunteered with families through the Red Cross Holiday for All programme, shared first aid and disaster preparedness knowledge, and practised communication and conflict resolution through Street Mediation. Creative projects opened conversations about faith, identity, censorship and freedom of expression.
Hiking, climbing and sea kayaking brought further lessons in teamwork and responsibility. Changing weather challenged outdoor groups to adapt their plans, listen to one another and make thoughtful decisions together.
Hiking in the mountains adapting to changing weather and consider one another’s needs and abilities
At the PBL Gala students shared their experiences and ideas for bringing their learning back to campus. Across the projects, they practised collaboration, respectful communication and compassionate leadership: important skills in life at RCN and beyond.
