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Educators recently gathered for a transformative Junior Landcare webinar featuring Junior Landcare ambassador Costa Georgiadis, First Nations educator Adam Shipp and environmental educator Sam Harrison. Designed specifically for educators, the session provided valuable insights on integrating outdoor learning with First Nations perspectives into school curricula and early childhood settings.

Some of the key takeaways from the insightful session included:

1. Building Community Connections: The presenters emphasised the importance of connecting with local First Nations communities before embarking on any projects. Each community has unique protocols and perspectives, and understanding these is crucial for respectful engagement.
2. Connecting with Country: A central theme of the webinar was the importance and value of spending time in nature to observe and reflect. Exploring First Nations seasons and weather knowledge with students, and leading habitat observation activities help deepen their connection to the land.
3. Curriculum-Linked Activities: Participants learned about practical activities like garden planning and the multiple uses of some native plants. Integrating First Nations knowledge into projects, such as bush tucker gardens, not only enriches learning but can also support community engagement.
4. Long-Term Planning: Costa Georgiadis and Adam Shipp highlighted the importance of planning for the longevity of projects like Indigenous plant gardens. Educators were encouraged to involve students in designing gardens and learning spaces, ensuring they are sustainable and meaningful.

The webinar offered invaluable tips and guidance for educators looking to enrich their outdoor learning practices. By embracing First Nations perspectives, educators can create more inclusive and meaningful experiences for all students. The session not only highlighted the importance of relationship building but also emphasised the joy of discovering nature through a cultural lens.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your teaching practices. Watch the recording of the webinar to gain deeper insights and practical strategies that can transform your approach to outdoor learning.