If a school has a garden, a lot of interesting activities can be organised. It is a lot more interesting to learn about nature by directly observing plants and animals in their habitat. Textbooks encourage botanical experiments so practically any school has some plants put up by children on window sills. But that’s not the same as rearranging the areas around the school and creating a real garden. Such ‘fieldwork’ teaches cooperation and responsibility so it’s worth making an effort. Of course this does not mean that all nature or biology lessons have to take place outside.
Important!
The project should have one coordinator who gathers information on the works (planned or completed) and takes care of the work plan with the changing seasons in mind. If it is possible in a given location, ‘class’ gardens can be set up. These are popular, especially among the youngest children.
Download THE GARDEN – A FLOURISHING EDUCATIONAL SPACE and read more about school gardens.
Arranging school space is very important for the fulfillment of the core curriculum. There are lots of references to the art world and student competences in this area in the teaching programme. Why not use art? The physical space of the school and its surrounding is a perfect place for students’ works.
Download ART IN THE SCHOOL SPACE and read about the solutions applied in some schools.
How would you like to change your school’s vicinity? Ask students to join the discussion and plan your actions in a way that will actively engage the whole of the school community. It is also worth asking parents for their opinions on the subject.
