Garden-based learning in primary schools: meeting the challenges and reaping the benefits

Abstract

Garden-based learning can make an important contribution to primary education. The school garden can be a foundation for integrated learning in and across disciplines. The primary aim of this study was to build a picture of the many ways school gardens are used and valued in Irish primary schools. A qualitative approach, incorporating site visits and interviews with key drivers of school garden programmes, enabled a detailed and colourful picture to emerge. Schools use their gardens in a variety of imaginative ways to encourage children’s development. A number of key factors drive the success of a school garden and enable schools to meet and overcome associated challenges. Teachers value their school gardens because they provide an arena for learning, space for pastoral care, a focus for school and community involvement and a source of pleasure for the entire school community. Insights from this study may prove useful to teachers, education professionals and policymakers across Ireland.