Between dissecting a chicken heart in science class and exploring the Corpus Museum in the Netherlands, students experienced the human body in an immersive, hands-on, and exciting way.
In 5ème life and earth sciences (SVT), the curriculum guides students through a deep exploration of how the human body functions, focusing on health, physical activity, and the environment. Studying the cardio-respiratory system, nervous system, skeleton, and muscles helps them understand how their body reacts to exertion, emotions, or stress.
As part of this program, the students took part in a practical chicken heart dissection session—an important step in visualizing classroom concepts. Handling a real organ allowed them to observe internal heart anatomy and identify its chambers, valves, and vessels. This helped them see firsthand the heart’s essential role in blood circulation while linking theory with direct observation. Beyond the scientific learning, this exercise also cultivated precision, discipline, hygiene and safety practices, and, above all, a respectful approach to living organisms.
This SVT unit laid a strong foundation that was reinforced during the trip to the Netherlands, where students revisited, deepened, and contextualized their knowledge through educational visits like the Corpus Museum.
A Comprehensive Educational Trip – Students’ Testimonials
Day 1 – The Hague: sports, thrills, and first adventures
Upon arrival at the beach after a long bus ride, students enjoyed a picnic by the sea and some bravely took a frozen swim. They then played beach sports before heading to Klimmuur for an unforgettable session of indoor climbing and speleology.
“The narrow little corridor smelled of sweat and feet… and led to an invisible ball pool in the dark!” – Anne, Linda, Ophélie
The day ended with a convivial dinner at the “Stay Okay” hostel, followed by a well-deserved—almost—night’s rest.
Day 2 – Leiden: deep into the human body
A visit to the Corpus Museum plunged students into an immersive exploration of the human body, from knee to brain, in captivating 3D motion.
“We followed, sitting on seats that moved, the movements of the red blood cell.” – Smilla, Benoît-Marie, Élisa
In the afternoon, the canals of Leiden provided the perfect backdrop for learning and leisure: a boat tour with historical anecdotes, playful challenges, and stunning views of 17th-century homes.
“A magnificent 17th-century house adorned with windows that revealed the wealth of families at that time.” – Leïla, Maïlys, Marie Joanna
Between visits, students enjoyed free time in the city centers of The Hague and Leiden—wandering, sharing ice cream, or buying souvenirs with friends.
This trip to the Netherlands allowed students to extend their classroom learning into real-world contexts, using their scientific knowledge in engaging, dynamic, and varied settings. It beautifully bridged classroom instruction with hands-on world experiences—a core element of LfiSV’s educational approach. This journey will undoubtedly leave lasting memories and may even inspire future vocations.
