From Passion to Leadership: Student-Led Sustainability in Action
Each year, the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) unites bird enthusiasts across the globe in a shared mission—to observe, record, and protect bird populations. This citizen science initiative, jointly organised by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, National Audubon Society, and Birds Canada, offers an opportunity for individuals to contribute to meaningful environmental research.
At Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi, the GBBC is more than just an annual event—it reflects our commitment to sustainability, global citizenship.
Connecting Students to Nature
Our students took to our green, biodiverse campus to observe and document the diverse bird species that call it home. Scientific signage across campus supports their learning, encouraging them to identify species, understand adaptations, and appreciate biodiversity. These hands-on experiences not only deepen their environmental awareness but also contribute to their overall wellbeing and curiosity about the natural world.
Steven W. | Year 12 Student
The Great Backyard Bird Count is an engaging way for children to learn about sustainability, conservation, and the natural world through a scientific approach. It also fosters global citizenship, as it relies on thousands of people worldwide contributing data. Most importantly, it helps children see that sustainability isn't just a distant concept—it’s something tangible that they can actively support with their own hands, eyes, and voice.
From Passion to Leadership
This year’s GBBC is particularly special, as it is being led entirely by one of our own: Steven W., a Year 12 student with a passion for ornithology. His journey from birdwatching as a hobby to leading a school-wide event demonstrates our school’s commitment to fostering student leadership and creating personalised pathways to success.
For Steven, ornithology isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifelong passion.
Steven W. | Year 12 Student
I’ve been fascinated by birds since primary school, first encountering the GBBC through the Boy Scouts of America. My real passion for ornithology as a science took off in 2019 when I competed in the Science Olympiad’s Ornithology section.
Recognising Steven’s passion, his university counselor, Miss Feng, encouraged him to take on a leadership role in this year’s GBBC. With guidance from teachers and school staff, Steven led the event, coordinated with multiple teams, and engaged younger students in conservation efforts.
Steven W. | Year 12 Student
This was my first time organising something on this scale. It was an incredible exercise in logistics, teamwork, and problem-solving. I learned how to communicate complex ideas to younger students and bring a large-scale initiative to life.
Steven’s leadership in the GBBC is a testament to Dulwich Puxi’s commitment to personalised pathways. By identifying individual passions and providing platforms for student-led initiatives, we empower students to develop valuable real-world skills—from critical thinking and project management to communication and teamwork.
At Dulwich Puxi, we don’t just teach students about the world—we empower them to shape it!
What passion will take flight next?