Cultivating Green Thumbs: An Outdoor Teacher's Planting Day!

Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast where we feature inspiring stories of educators who are passionate about taking learning beyond the four walls of the classroom. In today’s episode we have a special guest with us, James Matthews, is the Head of Environmental Studies at BHCS in Melbourne Australia and teaches both in Primary and Middle School. He is passionate about bush regeneration and students expressing creativity in his lessons using natural resources.  Today he will share his experience in facilitating a memorable experience for his students through a planting day. 
Key Points: 
1. The importance of outdoor learning: James shares about his belief in the benefits of taking learning outside the classroom. He shares that it is a great way for learners to connect with nature and understand the interconnectedness of the environment. Engagement is his biggest takeaway!
2. Planning and preparation: James explains the importance of planning and preparation for a successful planting day. He talks about how he communicated with the learners about the activity beforehand, and how he made sure he had all the necessary supplies and tools ready. 
3. The activity: James walks us through the actual day of planting. He shares how he assigned responsibilities and spaces to his learners, how he encouraged them to work collaboratively, and how he made sure everyone was engaged int he activity. He also talks about the practical skills his learners acquired during the activity, such as digging, planting, and measuring. 
4. Reflection and evaluation. James shares how he encouraged his learners to reflect on the activity and evaluate their work. He explains how he made sure that the learns celebrates their successes and accomplishments. 

Thank you James for sharing your valuable insights and experiences with us. If you would like to contact him for further information, you can reach out to him at jmathews@bhcs.vic.edu.au 
I hope that this episode will inspire educators to consider taking learning outside the classroom and to become stewards of the environment. Until next time, stay curious, keep learning, and keep cultivating those green thumbs.

Don't forget to check out www.teachoutdoors.ca and follow on Instagram @teachoutdoors.ca