Nature Based Learning

To Register:

1. Go to https://www.fsd38.ab.ca/Registration.php and complete the district registration form. Your registration will be marked as pending until such time that you receive confirmation from the EPPS Administration.

2. Go to https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScpnkpt7xwq-KCG8hgFsjQ4381AKroO-Rj5x11KOkZArNgLHA/viewform?usp=pp_url to complete the Nature Based Learning Program follow up questionnaire.

3. Attend the Virtual Nature Based Information night TODAY - March 11. Both presentations will begin at 6:30pm. Please attend via Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/93123448249?pwd=THJrSVhueWpPV1VvckY4emJwL2Y4Zz09.

Meeting ID: 931 2344 8249
Passcode: fBz8AB

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On Wednesday February 10, 2021, the Board of Trustees approved the Nature-Based Alternative Program.

This program may launch at École Percy Pegler School (ÉPPS) for the beginning of the 2021-2022 school year given sufficient enrollment.

This decision was based upon a feasibility study and implementation plan that was presented at the January 27, 2021 Board Meeting.

Previously, during the October 7, 2020 Board of Trustees meeting, Foothills School Division teachers, Ryan Lemphers and Graham Campbell presented a proposal for a Nature-based Alternative Program. At the same meeting on October 7, 2020 the Board approved that the school administration at ÉPPS to conduct this public engagement to complete a feasibility study for this Nature-based Alternative program.

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What is Nature Based Learning?

Nature based learning uses nature and our surrounding communities to develop strong, resilient, and engaged learners who have a sense of place and the confidence to lead in their communities and the world.

Why Nature based learning? Nature based learning is a powerful way to learn. Instead of making abstract connections from a textbook, students are immersed in the academic content as it unfolds before them in their own community. There is a beautiful flow that happens when learning in the outdoors. Students feel a sense of calm as they learn, and this leads to a more supportive learning environment.

Students involved in this program will:

• Experience increased motivation, engagement, and success with learning.
• Develop deep connections to nature and the environment
• Experience increased academic achievement.
• Experience learning that is meaningful and connected to the real world.
• Develop skills to overcome physical, emotional, and academic challenges.
• Become well rounded students who have a strong sense of community.
• Develop leadership skills to benefit their communities now and in the future.