How Do You Imagine the City of the Future?
For two days, students from international schools across Italy set out to answer that question, transforming Acorn International School into a hub of innovation, sustainability and international collaboration during the International Baccalaureate’s Festival of Hope.
The event brought together students from Saint Dominique (Rome), International School of Bologna (ISB), Smiling International School (Ferrara), St. George’s British International School (Rome), International School of Turin (IST), and Acorn International School. Working together across cultural and geographical boundaries, students shared ideas and perspectives while exploring some of the most pressing challenges facing our world today.
Bringing Global Perspectives Together
Organised around different continents, student teams developed and presented models, prototypes and innovative solutions inspired by sustainability, responsible development and technological innovation.
Student-Led Solutions for a Better Future
From future-ready cities to projects designed to improve the wellbeing of communities, each proposal reflected creativity, research and problem-solving skills. Through collaboration and discussion, students explored how innovative thinking can contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive world.
A Campus Transformed by Collaboration
Throughout the festival, the Acorn campus became a dynamic space for collaboration and discovery. Students had the opportunity to exchange ideas, challenge assumptions and learn from one another while developing essential skills such as critical thinking, communication and teamwork.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
By working alongside peers from different schools and backgrounds, participants experienced first-hand the value of international-mindedness and intercultural understanding—key elements of an IB education.
Acorn Students at the Heart of the Experience
Acorn students actively participated throughout the Festival of Hope, contributing their own projects and collaborating with students from other international schools. The experience provided an opportunity to broaden perspectives, build meaningful connections and apply the core values of the International Baccalaureate in a real-world setting.
Celebrating the Power of Young Changemakers
Hosting the Festival of Hope was a meaningful opportunity for Acorn International School to strengthen its connection with the wider IB community and celebrate the potential of young people as agents of positive change.
As the event came to a close, students left with new friendships, fresh ideas and a shared belief that the future is shaped through innovation, cooperation and the courage to imagine a better world.
