Learning together at Bush School
By Tori Weiss | Head of Junior School
Foundation & Year 1 families recently had the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and into the natural environment as part of our Bush School: Learning Together Open Day.
Families joined their children at Bush School to experience firsthand the rich learning that takes place outdoors and to see how learning can come alive when children are given the opportunity to explore, investigate and discover in the natural world.
At Encounter, we believe learning beyond the classroom is intentional, meaningful and deeply connected to the world around us. Bush School is a wonderful example of this approach, providing regular opportunities for our youngest learners to connect with nature, play, explore and learn through real-world experiences.
LEARNING IN OUR OWN BACKYARD
Our Bush School takes place at Wurar Ruwi, Encounter’s 69-acre natural space and outdoor learning environment. This special place provides children with space to roam, observe, question, imagine and engage with the world around them.
For our Foundation and Year 1 students, the outdoors becomes an extension of the classroom. Literacy, numeracy, STEM, art and sustainability experiences can all be explored in ways that are hands-on, collaborative and connected to the Australian Curriculum.
The environment also provides countless opportunities for children to develop skills and dispositions that extend beyond academic learning. As they navigate new experiences, work together and make discoveries, students develop curiosity, problem-solving skills, resilience and perseverance.
LEARNING THROUGH PLAY, EXPLORATION AND CONNECTION
Bush School recognises that play is an important part of how young children learn. Time in nature encourages children to explore, imagine, create and collaborate while developing confidence, independence and a sense of connection.
These experiences also align naturally with Encounter’s International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP), where students are encouraged to be curious, ask questions, make connections and engage meaningfully with the world around them.
Rather than simply learning about the natural world, our students have opportunities to learn within it. They can observe changes in their surroundings, investigate how living things interact, solve problems together and develop a growing sense of responsibility for the places they share.
LEARNING TOGETHER
The Open Day provided a wonderful opportunity for families to see this learning in action.
For parents and carers, it was a chance to step into their children’s learning environment, participate in activities and experience the joy and curiosity that Bush School inspires. For students, having their families alongside them added another layer of connection and shared discovery.
Bush School is far more than time spent outdoors. Every experience is purposeful, carefully planned and designed to support children’s learning, wellbeing and development.
Thank you to the Foundation and Year 1 families who joined us and embraced the adventure alongside their children. Together, we are nurturing capable, curious and connected learners who are learning to Thrive, Connect and Belong.
Encounter Lutheran College acknowledges the Ramindjeri people of the Ngarrindjeri Country as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and learn. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
Contact Encounter Lutheran College