South Shore Breaker

Provincial, federal government­s funding outdoor learning

- SALTWIRE STAFF

Students across the province will soon be taking the classroom outdoors thanks to funding from the provincial and federal government­s.

A $7-million project will allow schools to improve or create new outdoor learning areas, according to an April 13 release from the office of early childhood education and developmen­t.

Some proposed projects include a school garden, outdoor seating using stumps or rocks, shelters from weather and outdoor playing areas.

“We continue to see and hear about the positive mental, physical and academic benefits that come from teaching and learning in nature,” said Derek Mombourque­tte, minister of education and early childhood developmen­t.

Schools will be tasked to create spaces that promote topics like biodiversi­ty, inclusive education, African Nova Scotian heritage and treaty education to promote reconcilia­tion.

"The pandemic has allowed us to rethink learning spaces at our schools," said MP Sean Fraser.

"I’m thrilled to see these kinds of innovative investment­s in our communitie­s that will serve our kids for many years to come."

The government of Canada is investing $5.6 million to the project through the COVID19 Resilience Stream of the investing in Canada Infrastruc­ture Program. The Nova Scotia program is contributi­ng $1.4 million.

“As the parent of a young child, I’m looking forward to seeing how this investment will improve outdoor learning environmen­ts at schools in my community," said Fraser.

The deadline for projects to be completed is Dec. 31, 2021.

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