Issue link: https://publications.tfs.ca/i/1540856
THE NATURAL WORLD AS A GATEWAY From the youngest learners of La p'tite école creating art from leaves and twigs to the burgeoning researchers in Level III Biology exploring conservation, biodiversity and invasives upcycling (that is, collecting, studying and even building or cooking with some invasive plant species), the ravine is an integral part of transdisciplinary learning at TFS. Weekly and bi-weekly visits for students from PK to Grade 5 immerse young learners in natural sciences, Indigenous connections and concept- based inquiry. "One week the kids might be using field microscopes to examine decaying leaves in a waste systems study and the next they could be tracking animal behaviour for a communication-themed project that blends science, language and visual arts," explains Dr. Tamara Smith, Director of Service, Stewardship and Sustainability and a biology teacher. "We build all of these elements into our teaching, knowing that at the heart of it is wellness for the students," she says. The TFS approach recognizes the benefits of regular, high-quality experiences in nature as opportunities for social, emotional and academic growth. For Level IV student Jayee M., there's a direct correlation between feeling happy and spending time in nature, and he's hoping to not only study this further, but also use his research to encourage TFS students to get outside. "You don't even have to be in the ravine to benefit from it. Even just sitting outside and looking into the forest will make you feel better," he says. Jayee is conducting research on the mental health implications of time spent in nature and he's weaving his research into both English and science classes as well as his involvement in the Nature Pod. (From left to right) Then-Grade 3 students Abigail S., Finnegan D., Meera G. and Milan S. presenting their plant care project during the Climate and Biodiversity Action Showcase on Earth Day 2025. We want students to build scientific intuition and to develop an appreciation for seasonal changes, community impact and systems thinking. 12 ENTRE NOUS