Enviroschools : How it Works

Pam Jones

Part of the network for over 10 years!

"Enviroschools is an inclusive kaupapa that brings ‘change’ for both people and nature. I think one of the success factors is that students learn both inside and outside the classroom, and integrate practical and academic work to resolve real issues. Teaching and learning is achieved through the entire curriculum in a meaningful way, and there are endless opportunities for student achievement and success beyond just a grade! Boys in particular thrive on the combination approach, and I’ve seen many boys, for the first time, accept roles of responsibility, ownership and leadership at school. Also in the process, schools realise their local uniqueness, make informed decisions, take wise action and often discover their own ability to resource themselves in their journey towards sustainability."

The Enviroschools Programme is implemented regionally, along regional council boundaries and is supported by a network of people working for a range of different organisations. Regional partners contribute by providing funding, skilled people, ideas and networking opportunities. Assistance differs from region to region depending on the number and type of organisations involved.

Each enviroschool has a Facilitator who guides and supports the journey. A region will usually have a number of people working as facilitators and a Regional Coordinator who ensures collaboration, networking and support between all agencies involved in the Enviroschools Programme.

The wonderful thing about the Enviroschools Programme is that it honors where each school/centre is at on it's sustainability journey and encourages you to map out your own unique journey.

Along the way schools/centres explore the five Guiding Principles / Ngā Mātāpono of the programme, connect with the four key areas that make up a Whole School Approach and explore the enviroschools process. The Enviroschools process is different in each school but there are some main elements that schools undertake – such as creating a whole school vision, forming an envirogoup, working with the community and implementing action projects.

Using tools such as the Action Learning Cycle enables young people/rangatahi to be empowered to investigate, explore ideas, make decisions, take action and reflect on the changes they have created.

Sharing knowledge is an essential part of the Enviroschools process. Local, regional and national Enviroschools events provide opportunities for all participants to learn from each other. Events are also a great way to link schools with the diverse range of expertise in the wider community on sustainability topics.

There are a wide range of Outcomes and Benefits now being experienced from the this approach.