FAQs
Where can I get funding for my school project?
There are many organisations that may be able to help you get funding for a school grounds project, community garden project or a sustainability project. Click here for more information
Where can I get guidance on health and safety issues?
Don’t be daunted by health and safety issues, there’s plenty of advice availalble. Click here to visit our health and safety pages.
How can I teach the National Curriculum out of doors ?
All National Curriculum subjects can be taught in the outdoor classroom. Go to Teaching resources where you can search a huge range materials (almost all of which are free) by curriculum subject and theme. Other websites with a particularly wide range of ideas include:
Where can I get advice on developing my school grounds?
Learning through Landscapes is the National School Grounds Charity. They work with schools, early years settings, organisations and individuals across the country to help them improve and develop their grounds. To find out how they could help you click here
The following case studies may also prove to be helpful:
Developing an Outside Classroom for Early Years
To arrange a visit, and training in developing a school garden, visit one of the Growing Schools Gardens in London or Birmingham.
Where can I get advice on growing fruit and vegetables?
Garden Organic is dedicated to researching and promoting organic gardening, farming and food. The charity runs an extensive education programme and has many resources that can get you up and running with a school garden. Click here for information on their Organic Gardens For Schools programme.
The Royal Horticultural Society also runs an extensive education programme. The Campaign for School Gardening provides a wealth of information for schools, and registration is free. To find out how they can help you click here.
I have only limited space, how can I grow fruit and vegetables?
Container Growing You do not have to have a lot of space to grow fruit and vegetables and many schools with limited space have successful engaged their pupils in container growing. To download a factsheet click here
Windowsill Planting Make the most of the space available to you and brighten the outside of you school by planting on window sills. To download a factsheet click here.
What makes a school a healthy school?
A healthy school promotes the health and well-being of its pupils and staff through a well planned, taught curriculum. It does this in a physical and emotional environment that promotes learning and healthy lifestyle choices. Schools need to satisfy criteria in the four core themes within the programme:
- Healthy eating
- Physical activity
- PSHE
- Emotional health and well-being.
The National Healthy Schools programme promotes a whole school approach to health. It has been running since 1999 and is a joint initiative between the Department of Health and the Department for Children, Schools and Families. Click to read more on the Healthy Schools website
I need advice on composting
For a downloadable guide click here.
I want to build a pond
Click here for a downloadable factsheet on pond building
I want to visit a city farm
To find a city farm near you click here