Nature-based learning taking root in WSD

The transition between recess and gym is almost undistinguishable at Brock Corydon School, where learning extends beyond the classroom walls and students stay outside and learn with and from nature.

Nature-based learning spaces have been recently added to Brock Corydon that incorporate natural elements that are thoughtfully included to encourage curiosity and active play. Students are learning while connecting with nature, sunlight and fresh air.

Cody Fjeldsted, who teaches both phys-ed and outdoor ed at Brock Corydon, said he takes his students outside to promote a healthy and active lifestyle.

“Part of healthy living is appreciating being outdoors, it’s a simple way to get more movement in your life,” said Fjeldsted.

Not only are the students being active and engaged outdoors, they are also learning about nature that surrounds them, such as during a recent scavenger hunt lesson.

“I had the students looking for items with clues such as where a squirrel would hide it’s food, a mouse would have a nest, or where a bird would lay its eggs on the ground. The students had to get low, shuffle through the leaves,and rocks and really think about the nature around them. It’s fun, engaging and promotes healthy lifestyles,” said Fjeldsted.

At Ralph Brown School students are usually exploring and learning outdoors for about 30–40 minutes a day (beyond recess and lunch breaks). Nature-based learning allows students to demonstrate global competencies: critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, citizenship and connection to self.  

Thanks to a grant obtained through the division from the Manitoba Government, Ralph Brown School has transformed their school year to support nature-based learning and outdoor play, obtained classroom and student resources, and provided related professional development. Some of the supplies included rain suits for all students, clipboards, magnifying glasses, wagons and books for each classroom.  

Learning in and with nature also provides opportunity for students to take charge of their own learning as it tends to be inquiry based and student-led such as during a community walk last school year.

“Last year, students went for a community walk where they found a large fallen branch on the ground and began to ask their teacher questions. To support this inquiry, the teacher invited the students to work together to carry the branch back to school for further examination and discussion. The branch remained at school for the week while students used it as a focus for learning. When the learning was completed, the students returned it to the park they found it. As they were returning it, they noticed a city crew cleaning up the fallen branches and using a woodchipper. This prompted students to ask more questions and extended the learning again,” shared acting principal, Trevor MacVicar.

Over the next year, Ralph Brown School is hoping to redevelop their raised garden to include vegetables, herbs and flowers for further learning opportunities in the spring.  

“Through spending more time outdoors, students are becoming more environmentally conscious and understanding their impact on the natural world,” said MacVicar.