Learning through Landscapes' Local School Nature Grants Scheme is back, thanks to support from funder Postcode Local Trust, on behalf of the People’s Postcode Lottery. The first round of Phase 2 is now open and even if you have applied before, you can do so again. Successful schools will receive £500 worth of nature equipment including growing kits and planters, den-making kits, insect study centres, outdoor cooking equipment and wildlife kits. Schools will also receive a two-hour training session of their choosing.Visit www.ltl.org.uk/naturegrants to apply.
One successful school is set amongst Southampton tower blocks and many of the pupils do not have gardens at home. The school considers they are fortunate that their outdoor environment has the capacity to be a fantastic stimulus. The staff team were looking to build their knowledge and resources to make the most of their outdoor areas.
The school council came up with a shortlist which was taken into classes and a vote resulted in the insect and bird study centres being chosen. The school chose ‘Building on your outdoor learning provision’ as their training session. There was a very positive response to the hands-on training and the teachers believe that their pupils and staff will all benefit.
