Everywhere’s a Classroom

Education programs based in nature are enjoyable, engaging and inspire kids to learn.

The Home Education Network was one of three successful applicants for financial support as part of SA Water’s Reservoirs Partnership Program this year.

The funding will enable South Australian homeschoolers to connect with nature at Happy Valley Reservoir Reserve on Friday 9th December through their ‘Everywhere’s a Classroom’ event.

The idea behind the home education event was to showcase to all South Australian families that no matter what’s happening in the world, when you use the great outdoors, everywhere is a classroom.

The event will include a full day’s worth of learning, harnessing the recreational potential of the reservoir’s beautiful open green spaces and water.

Families will have the chance to explore the site’s natural environment while participating in art projects, bike riding, bird watching, fishing, nature photography and lots of kayaking.

For those who need a quiet space amidst the activity, there will be a ‘nature bathing’ area to take time out and recharge.

Connie Woolston – home school parent of a 14-year-old boy and one of the event coordinators said, “Books and computers are great, but when children get outside you see engaged, hands-on learning on a whole other level, and across multiple disciplines.”

This is supported by Kylie Agnew of Youth Psychology SA, ‘Learning in nature is more than just having a nice backdrop. There is substantial evidence that time spent in nature (gardens, parks, beaches etc) has a positive effect on attention, self-discipline, stress reduction, motivation and engagement. All of these effects have been shown to improve learning outcomes. Furthermore, experiences and connection to nature helps foster environmental stewardship plus various skills and attitudes (such as perseverance, self-efficacy, resilience, social skills, leadership, and communication skills), which are vitally important in preparation for modern adult life’.

On the day all home-educating families will bring food and drink in reusable containers or in reusable wrapping, to contribute to this being a ‘Zero Waste’ event.