During school hours, Manuterra offers primary and secondary school pupils the opportunity to learn in the great outdoors over the course of twelve two-hour sessions. The pupils reconnect with nature, observe the biodiversity that surrounds them and most importantly, tend to a plot of land using permacultural techniques that respect the earth. Overseen by professionals (horticulturalists, gardeners, market gardeners, etc.), participating classes discover the gestures, techniques and vocabulary that will enable them to prepare and cultivate a plot of land according to the rhythm of the seasons and tend to it all the way through to a final harvest.

For the fourth consecutive school year, Manuterra is continuing its roll-out across France, with the Lille board of education joining the ten other partners boards. In 2024-2025, 35 classes (16 elementary school classes, 14 middle school classes and 5 lycée classes) are taking part in the scheme, for a total of 875 participating pupils.

This hands-on discovery of the living world can ensure that tomorrow's citizens come to feel that they have a stake in environmental issues. Each session provides an opportunity for the group to explore key concepts – water management, the importance of seasonality, the interdependence of living things – in greater detail, while helping teachers to approach fundamental subjects in an innovative and cross-curricular way. By working together to cultivate a plot of land, through to the final harvest of the fruit and vegetables planted earlier in the year, classes can enjoy an edifying experience in the heart of nature.