Creating dynamic outdoor learning spaces in primary schools is more than just a landscaping project; it’s an investment in the next generation. As educators and administrators explore innovative ways to engage younger students, government funding for primary school landscaping projects in Australia offers an incredible opportunity to transform traditional playgrounds into thriving natural outdoor play areas.
In this blog, we’ll explore how schools can access funding, key considerations for building outdoor learning environments, and how Great Spaces can help bring these visions to life.
The Australian government is increasingly recognising the importance of outdoor education in fostering creativity, resilience, and social skills among younger children. Several grants and funding programs exist to support primary schools in creating engaging outdoor play spaces for early childhood and beyond.
For example, programs such as the Capital Works Grant or Active Schools Grants are designed to assist schools in upgrading their facilities, including landscaping and outdoor learning areas. Both grants’ 2024-25 application period has concluded, so checking for future funding rounds is essential. For the most current information and application timelines, it’s advisable to regularly consult the official Victorian Government Grants portal.
Schools considering these opportunities should submit strong proposals highlighting the long-term educational benefits of outdoor learning spaces, including how these environments support sustainability and nature-based play.
Transforming a schoolyard into an outdoor learning environment requires careful planning. For primary schools, the focus should be on creating areas that promote nature play, safety, and exploration while also fostering educational opportunities.
Nature Play as a Cornerstone: Natural outdoor play areas in childcare and primary school settings encourage hands-on learning through interaction with plants, water, and other natural elements. These spaces inspire creativity and help children develop an appreciation for the environment.
Prioritising safety: Safety is paramount in outdoor play spaces for early childhood. Schools should aim to integrate features such as soft-fall surfaces, shaded areas, and child friendly pathways to ensure students can explore with confidence.
Promoting sustainability: Sustainability should be at the heart of any landscaping project. Incorporating features like native plant gardens, water-saving irrigation systems, and recycled materials teaches students about environmental stewardship and helps schools reduce their ecological footprint.
Encouraging multi-use spaces: Outdoor learning spaces should be versatile, accommodating structured lessons and free play. Features such as amphitheaters, sensory gardens, and shaded seating areas provide diverse opportunities for learning and recreation.
Building the future with Great Spaces
At Great Spaces, we understand the importance of creating outdoor learning environments for early childhood that inspire growth, play, and discovery. Our team of expert landscape designers specialises in crafting tailored solutions for primary schools, ensuring each project meets both the educational needs of students and the operational goals of schools.
We’re here to guide schools through every step of the process, from conceptual design to construction, ensuring the final outdoor learning environment is not only beautiful but also practical and sustainable.
If you’re ready to transform your school grounds into a space where young minds can thrive, explore our primary school landscaping solutions today – together, we can help your school maximise the benefits of government funding and create outdoor learning spaces that make a lasting impact.
