This book is a priceless aid to anyone involved in education at any level, or any parent planning to be outdoors with children. It’s a collaboration of “in the field” experiences from three organics graduates who know the Irish education system from the inside.
Each task outlined, using vegetables, flowers , herbs and trees, has been tried and tested in dozens of schools, community gardens and home gardens around Munster, or at the Irish Seed Savers Association in Scarriff.
The book is a model of how to pool resources and experiences from the diverse backgrounds of a patient biologist, a dramatic dancer and a reflective poet. It shows how two environmental organisations with proven credentials, Kerry Earth Education Project (K.E.E.P.) and I.S.S.A, can pool resources to create a richer, more colourful guide to the outdoor classroom, than either could do on its own.
Coming at a time when there are larger classes and increasing numbers, there is more than ever the temptation for teachers to, stay in the safety of the indoor four walls. This guide shows how, why, when and where to organise classes from juniors to sixth and enjoy the experience. It offers design ideas, plans for each month, tools advice and integration of the garden across the curriculum. There are worksheets, recipes for use of seasonal produce, an excellent resources page and a glossary, as well as the téarmaí gaeilge for most activities.
Used well, this book will have children of all ages out dancing with nature, smelling their own herbs and in a few years eating their own apples. It is long overdue and presents a serious guide to practical eco-literacy. This book will help the teachers create a very special leaning environment. An ideal Christmas present, it is a must for every school and adult learning library in the country.
Jim Mc Namara 26/10/2009.
“The year round organic school garden”
by Lucy Bell, Niamh Ní Dhúill, Áine Ní Fhlaharta. ISBN 97800956130105. Available from K.E.E.P. Gortbrack farm Tralee or Seed Savers Association Scarriff Co Clare.