This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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School Grounds Week begins
17/09/2002
Scottish School Grounds Week, run by the charity Grounds
for Learning, was launched today with the participation of
500 schools and 40,000 pupils.
Education Minister Cathy Jamieson said school grounds
can be valuable resources for stimulating pupils' interest
in the natural environment and developing out of classroom
learning.
Schools should use their playgrounds and outside spaces
for better play, learning, teaching, and growing up with
more connection with the natural world.
At the High School Yards Nursery School in Edinburgh, Ms
Jamieson added:
"Learning is about making use of the whole school
environment, not just the classroom. With imagination and
commitment, grounds and playgrounds can be resources in
their own right and can greatly improve the quality of life
in our schools.
"Across Scotland, 500 schools and 40,000 pupils will
take part in activities through the Scottish School Grounds
Week. It is important that pupils get the benefit of a well
rounded curriculum. The activity also complements our work
on improving school buildings and the school estate.
"I hope that pupils will make the most of the outdoor
learning opportunities on offer and schools are encouraged
to think imaginatively about the use of their grounds."
The theme of this year's Scottish School Grounds Week is
'Gardens for Life, Grounds for Learning'.
The activity and learning encourages schools to explore
how our own health, the health of others and the health of
the environment are all interdependent.
Further information about the Week and Grounds for
Learning is available from Angela Hughes on 01786
445922/07879 814883.