Environment
RECONNECTION WITH NATURE
The physical environment of the Learning Centre is carefully planned and created to be naturally beautiful so that the inner, intuitive part of each student and educator is fed in a natural way. The primary goal of the environment is to facilitate connection, i.e. to facilitate the meaningful connection of each student with their own self, with others and with the environment that they are a part of. As environment is a major component of the educational equation, our intention is to create, monitor and continually improve the causal elements of atmosphere.
Sustainability is currently a crucial learning for humankind. Buildings, site, energy and water use will be carefully designed to incorporate most effective practices. Students will learn daily by being practically involved in maintenance and development activities.
GROUNDS
Our environment is designed to maximise engagement. A wide range of varying environments both indoors and outdoors are available to encourage and stimulate a deeper connection for each student. Outdoor features include adventure equipment, sports grounds, animals, vegetable and flower gardens, orchards, and forest. Learners are supported to engage with nature through permaculture — organic fruit and vegetable gardening, pet animals, birds and fish.
As part of taking responsibility for the environment and their impact on it, learners and educators participate in taking care of the buildings and grounds through gardening and cleaning, they are also involved in the planning and ongoing development of the school facilities.
Our intention is to create as sustainable an environment as possible, free of toxic materials, employing zero waste practices, solar energy, our own waste-water treatment system. Learners are involved in maintaining and developing our sustainable practices and resources.
BUILDINGS
All buildings will be aesthetically pleasing, colourful and with natural lighting. Learning spaces are comfortable, warm, inviting, and ergonomic with the feeling of a homely living space rather than an impersonal environment. A wide range of facilities will be available to cater for individual talents and development needs.
Children are encouraged to participate in the creation of the classroom structure. The classroom is seen as a community within the school community. Personal needs such as food preparation are accommodated for. A communal kitchen is available for staff and students, for both curriculum and nutritional use.
CULTURE
Nature exists inside as well as outside each of us. Outside of ourselves, the social environment is the greatest arena for learning in any of our lives, because the relationship with fellow humans is closest to our heart. It is also an area where the human race is in great need of healing.
Our intention is to create a culture that enables full individual growth and expression while respecting and honouring and enjoying those around us as well. Learners will be encouraged to participate in creating and administering the variety of social processes that are required in the Learning Centre.