1. What are Learnscapes and how can my school get started?

Learnscapes are outdoor learning environments designed to support experiential education across all curriculum areas. They encourage hands-on learning while building essential life skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, and environmental stewardship. Schools can get started using the planning tools, curriculum resources available on this site.

Process for Developing a Learnscape

1. Form a Team
   Include educators, students, designers, horticulturists and community members for diverse input.

2. Assess the Site
   Evaluate soil, sunlight, drainage, vegetation, space and environmental conditions.

3. Create a Wish List
   Gather team ideas focused on educational goals, features and sustainability.

4. Develop Master Plan/Designs
   Combine the wish list and site analysis into a functional, educational and ecological design.

5. Implement in Stages
   Execute the plan in phases, allowing adjustments, budgeting and community input.

2. How does KidsGrow link to the curriculum?

KidsGrow connects a ten step process to creating a successful class garden with specific learning outcomes in science, health, literacy, numeracy, and the arts from the Australian National Curriculum. The program offers themed garden plans designed to suit Early Childhood through to Primary and Junior Secondary, teaching ideas, and hands-on activities that align with curriculum outcomes while promoting student wellbeing, sustainability, and community engagement.

3. Who can participate in the Water Ambassadors program?

Water Ambassadors invites students of all ages to engage in hands-on water education. Collaborating with local council environmental staff, students design and deliver initiatives to save water, prevent pollution, and protect water quality. Using clear messages like “Shorter showers sure save water” and “Only rain down our drain,” they raise awareness school-wide and beyond. This program fosters practical skills and environmental responsibility in managing local water resources.

4. Can these programs be tailored to our school’s needs?

Absolutely. All programs—Learnscapes, KidsGrow, and Water Ambassadors—are flexible and can be adapted to suit your school’s location, resources, and educational goals. Helen Tyas Tunggal offers customised support and practical resources to help embed sustainability and hands-on learning into your school's culture.