Using his own photography technique, he captured the students in the natural environment of their classrooms and also canvassed some of the pupils about their lives. His work resulted in the publication Classroom Portraits 2004-2012 and an exhibition at Nederlands Fotomuseum, Rotterdam.

This major exhibition at Towner will display 200 objects including framed photographs, films, prints, Polaroids, and customised books. The exhibition will also show especially created portraits of four Eastbourne schools that Germain visited and photographed in July.