At first it was about challenging the archaic tradition of teaching in four walls.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But it meant much more to Albion Park High School students and teachers on Friday when they finally opened their outdoor living classroom.
Principal Suzi Clapham said the new outdoor classroom was designed to connect with students at risk of disengaging from school and look at new ways of teaching and learning for these students.
Almost eight months after a smoking ceremony signalled the start of the project, the opening of the permaculture garden on the school grounds was “special” for all involved.
Ms Clapham was particularly pleased students had been full participants in planning the space and all the physical aspects of “bringing this first stage to fruition”.
“The Living Classroom isn’t simply an add on to other things happening at the school, it is embedded in the curriculum and it is high quality project based learning for students,” she said.
“It’s based on using 21st century skills, it’s about sustainability, and has many links to our community including our significant Aboriginal community.”
In fact, when the school started the project, teacher Shannon Farrugia was adamant that “the projects that last have a spiritual foundation and have the blessing from our Aboriginal elders”.
Ms Clapham said the school has been unflagging in its ongoing efforts to deliver the best in Aboriginal education for its students.
She also appreciated that all students were “collaborating, using teamwork. critical thinking, organisational skills and their creativity to achieve not only a great new space but skills and expertise that they can use well beyond their school years”.
“The Living Classroom makes them think about sustainability, what it means to be a good global citizen and respecting the land on which we walk,” Ms Clapham said.
“These are the first physical steps and in the future we hope to be able to add a kitchen, seating circle, outdoor movie theatre..”
The school funded the Living Classroom with help from the Albion Park RSL.