In 2012, students from Woodlands Full Primary School planted 308 native riparian plants along the Waihopai River. Eight years on, this project has grown into an outdoor learning area that many in the community can enjoy, and students will be able to experience for years to come.
Students have continued to plant trees, design insect hotels, introduce leaf cutter bees and test the water quality of the river. The improved water quality from their efforts has seen an increase of fish and birdlife to the area. This project has had an obvious impact on the environmental understanding and awareness of the Woodlands students, with many of them showing immense pride in the area. This well-established project has huge community support and a long-term future, with lessons incorporated in all areas of the school curriculum.
The school won the Environmental Action in Education award at the 2019 Environment Southland Community Awards.
Students have continued to plant trees, design insect hotels, introduce leaf cutter bees and test the water quality of the river. The improved water quality from their efforts has seen an increase of fish and birdlife to the area. This project has had an obvious impact on the environmental understanding and awareness of the Woodlands students, with many of them showing immense pride in the area. This well-established project has huge community support and a long-term future, with lessons incorporated in all areas of the school curriculum.
The school won the Environmental Action in Education award at the 2019 Environment Southland Community Awards.
Educators and groups wishing to visit our Outdoor Learning Area are most welcome and appointments can be made by contacting Heidi Wilcox at h[email protected]