Thematic, experiential learning is a major component of The Hague Approach. Through quarterly themes, weekly guest speakers, and intentional field work, students encounter community experts doing real work and then apply what they learn through authentic project and problem-based learning.

Themes such as plastics pollution, respect & citizenship, cross-cultural connections, and nutrition offer opportunities to expand learning beyond the regular classroom. Guest speakers from the surrounding community include design professionals, screenwriters, filmmakers, college professors, educators from The Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Lynnhaven Now Project, leaders from different faith communities, hip-hop artists, and local City Council members.

Students apply what they learn to directly impact their school and community. For example, they test nearby waters to consider best marsh grasses to plant in order to fight against flooding. They design and build various aspects of the landscape for the school. They develop community norms built upon shared values. They collaborate in groups for a school wide Public Service Announcement (PSA) Challenge where they pull insights and inspiration from various speakers to develop a PSA on respect or citizenship. Students also participate in the Global Social Leaders Competition and Virginia Mock Trial program.