Eden Academic Learning Centre in Oudtshoorn, in the Klein Karoo, which is part of the Foundation for Environmental Education’s Eco-Schools programme, celebrated its 1st year birthday in Febuary 2023.
This programme encourages learners to engage with the environment by allowing them the opportunity to actively protect the enviroment and become involved in the environmental management policies of their schools.
A holistic approach to the development of learners, as well as the community it serves, resulted in the successful rekindling of the Eco-Schools programme.
“Learning increases when the school community feels safe, valued, respected and engaged,” Ronelle Huyssamen explains.
In a society that is increasingly focused on academic achievement and individual accomplishments, Huyssamen realised it was time for a different approach.
Her solution was to create an environment in which children were given an opportunity to develop those talents and skills that may be overlooked in other, more academically and sporting-minded schools.
Huyssamen points out that the focus on eco-education has resulted in an improvement in most students’ general performance at the school.
“This is because we are no longer just drilling theory into children, but giving them an opportunity to apply their new-found knowledge to the world around them,” she explains.
Outdoor learning experiences are often remembered for a lifetime, and the integration of outdoor experiences into education, provide relevance and depth to the curriculum, she says.
“Learning at the school has, in effect, become enjoyable, creative and challenging. It helps children learn from [personal] experience and grow into confident and responsible citizens,” Huyssamen says.
Huyssamen is very proud of what the school has achieved over the past few months: “The impact of creating a more nurturing learning environment in which each child is treated as an individual, is already delivering positive results. Internal and external perceptions are also changing, and learner numbers are growing. A culture of respect, for themselves and others, is also visible, and learners feel valued,” Huyssamen concludes.
