An outdoor classroom at Bluenose Academy in Lunenburg, NS. Photo: CKBW Files
A byproduct of the COVID-19 pandemic is more learning has been taking place outside and the government is now investing in projects to improve the experience.
The Department of Early Childhood Education and Wellness announced $7 million in funding for elementary schools looking to enhance outdoor learning spaces.
The majority of the funding ($5.6 million) is coming from the federal government through the COVID-19 Resilience Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The remainder ($1.4 million) is coming from the Nova Scotia government.
“I am very happy to announce our commitment to outdoor learning,” said Derek Mombourquette, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development. “One of the lessons learned from COVID-19 is the advantage of teaching and learning outdoors. We continue to see and hear about the positive mental, physical and academic benefits that come from teaching and learning in nature. Our outdoor learning fund will ensure these benefits remain in place for Nova Scotia’s students once the pandemic is over.”
In a release, the government provided examples of projects that would be eligible for funding.
The examples include but are not limited to;
- — school gardens
- — outdoor seating areas using nature-based elements, such as rocks or tree stumps
- — coverings/shelters from elements (tents, shade-providing structure)
- — outdoor performance areas
The funding will be available to all elementary schools across the province provided the projects they are looking to fund will be completed by December 31, 2021.
