Provincial, federal governments funding outdoor learning

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.