Embracing Green Spaces at Living Faith

Principals Pen Thursday, 16 May 2024


Nurturing growth and wellbeing at our school

As we continue to prioritise the holistic development and wellbeing of our students, it is important to highlight the significance of green spaces within our Living Faith school environment. Our vibrant, outdoor spaces play a pivotal role in fostering not only physical health but also mental rejuvenation and academic success for our students.

Renowned educator Maggie Dent aptly captures the essence of green spaces, stating, ‘Access to nature is not just a luxury, it is a necessity for optimal child development.’ Indeed, our commitment to providing ample green play spaces around our school grounds echoes this sentiment. With primary classrooms surrounded by green space and shaded verandas activating play spaces, we ensure that our students have immediate and convenient access to these restorative environments.

The heart of our facilities masterplan lies in the recognition that green spaces are not merely incidental but essential for the wellbeing of our students. ‘Children need opportunities to connect with nature, to explore, play and learn in outdoor environments,’ emphasises Dent.

At Living Faith, we go beyond traditional play structures by incorporating nature play facilities and loose parts play which are both designed to encourage exploration and risk-taking. These expansive areas, embraced by our masterplan, remain integral to our school's ethos, providing students with opportunities to develop resilience and problem-solving skills.

As we consider embarking on the next phase of our school's growth with the addition of secondary school buildings, rest assured that our commitment to maintaining and activating green spaces remains steadfast. The outer edges of our oval and lawned areas will continue to evolve, offering designated zones for year levels, while casual supervision ensures the safety, wellbeing and
enjoyment of all students.

In conclusion, our dedication to green spaces is not just about preserving landscapes; it's about nurturing the growth, wellbeing and academic success of our students. By integrating nature into every aspect of our school environment, we cultivate a culture of curiosity, resilience and connection to the world around us.

Peace
Andrew Kelly

Principal