About the project
What exactly is Minecraft @ Gad Lab?
A private Minecraft server, educational and supervised, hosted in Switzerland, for children aged 8 to 15, teens, and adults. It is not a computer class, nor a digital daycare. It is a structured play space where members learn to collaborate, make decisions together, and manage collective projects. Each session follows a defined pedagogical cycle. There is always a responsible adult present.
Is my child just going to play Minecraft?
Minecraft is the medium. What we really develop are soft skills: teamwork, collective decision-making, project management, and critical thinking. The method is inspired by Swiss direct democracy and Agile practices used in professional tech teams — adapted for children’s ages.
Why not a coding or robotics class?
Because children don’t need another class. They need to learn how to inhabit the digital world — not just understand the technical side. Gad Lab trains digital citizens, not budding developers. The difference is important.
On safety
Who can access the server?
Members by invitation only. The server has a strict whitelist — only official Minecraft usernames registered and validated by Gad Lab can connect (tripartite verification). A stranger cannot join a session.
Can my child be in contact with unknown adults?
No. All participants are registered, identified, and validated members. The facilitators are the only adults present, and their role is known to all families.
Is my child’s data protected?
Yes. No personal data is collected for commercial purposes. The server is hosted by Infomaniak in Geneva, subject to Swiss law. We do not pass any information to third parties. See our Privacy Policy for details.
What happens in case of problematic behavior?
A facilitator intervenes in real time. Each incident is documented and handled according to the Charter. Parents are informed if the situation justifies it. In case of a serious breach, access to the server may be suspended.
On practical organization
What equipment is needed?
A PC or Mac computer with Minecraft Java Edition installed (~30 CHF, one-time purchase on minecraft.net) and a stable internet connection. Neither tablets, consoles, nor smartphones are compatible with the server.
How often do sessions take place?
Sessions are organized according to a schedule published in advance. Check the Rates, sessions, and schedule page for available slots. One-off sessions and monthly subscriptions are available.
Can my child participate if they don’t know Minecraft?
Yes, no problem. The first sessions include a discovery and onboarding phase. Facilitators support beginners. What matters is curiosity — not prior experience.
My child has a special need — can they still participate?
We welcome children with various profiles, including neuroatypical children or those with disabilities, in coordination with the families and institutions concerned. Contact us to discuss: minecraft@gadlab.net
On commitments
Is there a long-term commitment?
No. Individual sessions are available. Monthly subscriptions exist for regular members. There is no mandatory minimum commitment.
Can we try it before signing up?
Yes — a free trial session is available. It’s the best way to see if the project suits your child. → Join a trial session
What happens if my child wants to stop?
They can stop at any time. No complicated procedures. A simple message to minecraft@gadlab.net is enough.
A question that isn’t on this list?
Write to us at minecraft@gadlab.net — we respond within 48 hours.
