Project-Based Learning Case Study: Operation Automate Crystal Palace #
What does Project-Based Learning look like in action? At Manurewa Intermediate School, it looks like students repairing greenhouses, building irrigation systems and applying STEM skills to solve real problems at their school.
“Operation Automate Crystal Palace” began as a Curious Minds South Auckland project but became something much bigger. Students led every step of the transformation, applying design thinking, engineering principles and environmental science to turn a rundown structure into a thriving food production and learning hub.
This case study shows the power of project-based learning to shift school culture, foster student ownership and spark meaningful, lasting change.
How can science and technology make our school greenhouse more efficient?
Students at Manurewa Intermediate School took on the challenge of transforming their school's old and dilapidated greenhouse (aka 'the Crystal Palace') into a fully functional, efficient and sustainable food production system. Through this student-led approach, they applied scientific and engineering principles to create an optimised growing environment.
This project involved students designing and building key greenhouse infrastructure. The students patched walls, made custom shelving, installed irrigation systems and explored drainage solutions. They took full ownership of the design process, measuring the space, determining the best use of shelving and optimising plant-growing conditions.
Although initial plans to automate the ventilation system were delayed, the team adapted and redirected resources to other greenhouse improvements. One development that came from this pivot was an automated irrigation system, which allows users to monitor and adjust water levels in the greenhouse remotely via app.
“Students are contributing to a bigger picture
and that was a really good feeling for them.”
Michael Watson, lead teacher
Manurewa Intermediate School
This key innovation introduced the students to real-world applications of data analysis and technology in agriculture. By testing how different irrigation settings impacted plant growth, they could make observations and adjust their approach accordingly.
Beyond providing much-needed infrastructure for the students' seedlings, the greenhouse has become an important learning space, fostering a sense of responsibility and ownership among the students.
The school now uses the space to host a range of STEM learning experiences, including horticulture, engineering and environmental science lessons. The school also plans to use the Crystal Palace for long-term sustainability projects, such as growing produce for school and community events and for nurturing native plant seedlings.
“It's cool to see our school changing as we go.”
Wanika, Year 8 student
Manurewa Intermediate School
For more case studies like this one, see our latest project showcase!
