Using the school grounds as an extended classroom

Case study

Coombes Infant and Nursery School has developed its grounds into an extended classroom that supports conservation and sustainability.

Key learning

Coombes Infant and Nursery School has developed its grounds into an extended classroom that supports learning about conservation and sustainability.
The school has received national recognition for good practice in developing grounds that support infant and nursery education.
Sustainability is fully embedded into the school curriculum.
The headteacher provides direction on sustainable development but ownership is shared amongst the staff.

Background

Coombes Infant and Nursery School in Reading has a philosophy of using the school landscape to promote the virtues and benefits of green living. The school aims to make its extensive grounds a haven for children, trees, plants and other living things.

Key challenges

Building the team

Coombes Infant and Nursery School aims to recruit teachers who are committed to sustainability as an essential component in the education of young children.

Seeking support

When the school needs additional assistance with its sustainability initiatives, the leadership team is active in seeking expertise and financial support from local and national organisations.

Solution

Developing the school grounds

Coombes Infant and Nursery School has developed its grounds as an educational resource which supports learning about conservation and sustainability issues. Pupils take an active role in maintaining the school grounds.

Engaging staff

The headteacher wants all staff to contribute to the development of education for sustainability and has established a culture where all ideas – including adventurous ideas – are welcomed.

Involving the community

Parents and governors are highly supportive of the school’s approach to sustainability. The school encourages community involvement in school life and welcomes parents and friends of the school as voluntary assistants.

Joining national initiatives

The school is a part of the Healthy Schools and Growing Schools initiatives and also has close links with Learning Through Landscapes.

Further information

For further information contact Coombes Infant and Nursery School.