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Nature-Based Learning
​​​​​​​​In 2021, Buena Vista became the first public school in Saskatoon to offer an outdoor natured-based learning program in prekindergarten to Grade 1. With the success of the outdoor learning approach, in 2022, Buena Vista expanded the program to include students from prekindergarten to Grade 5 — ​grades 6 to 8 students also dip their toes into the nature-based learning waters.​​

​Nature-based learning includes a range of educational practices and experiences that are linked to improved academic achievement, holistic wellness, personal development and environmental stewardship. These practices may include:
  • Outdoor learning experiences
  • Nature-focused inquiry (in and out of the classroom)
  • Play-based, forest school approaches to early learning
  • Indigenous land-based learning
  • Place-based learning
  • Ecological and garden education.
Outdoor and indoor learning environments collectively support child development. The nature-based learning program supports students as they build language and communication skills, learn to co-operate with others, make new friendships and prepare for future learning in the school environment.

To read a story about nature-based learning, click here​.

For more information about nature-based learning, please contact us​.