Outdoor Learning Area

The Planning of the Outdoor Education Area was started in Early January and February, It took approximately 3-4 months planning. The Clearing of the space started about April and the Garden area was planted not long after. We have found the area to be beneficial for our students and the wider community:
- Students have shown an appreciation for the garden area, Our Reception-Year 1 students take responsibility in keeping the area clean, from sweeping to pulling out of weeds.
- Our parents have used the space to mix and mingle amongst each other during playgroup sessions.
- The School use the space for important or special events Assemblies etc….
- Used for traditional cooking damper, roo tails etc…
- Students now have an appreciation for plants i.e. the planting of plants to looking after and maintaining the plants from an Educational perspective.
- It has also had an effect of being a calming area for students who get distressed or are just in need of some space, this has been a space where students who get worked up, can be used as a distraction or sidetracks them from getting worked up that they become quite aggressive. Can be used as a last resort when all other avenues have been exhausted.
- The Community has also embraced this area considering the Stigma that Carlton has had in the past. Not only has this brought our Community together but has brought the wider Community back into the fray, this was evident at our recent 40th celebration.

Regards
Afe Ikiua
Principal