From September 15 to October 20, the wonders of nature will be explored and explained as provincial parks and reserves in the province host primary and elementary students for the annual Parks as Nature's Classroom program. This highly successful program provides hands-on learning experiences in some of the most beautiful protected areas of the province.

"For the past 13 years, our parks and reserves turn into outdoor classrooms in the fall, giving us an opportunity to promote environmental conservation and stewardship by allowing children to explore and learn about the natural wonders of Newfoundland and Labrador," said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Environment and Conservation. "This program is a valuable learning tool for environmental education in our province."

Developed in conjunction with the Department of Education, the program is designed to complement the curriculum being taught in the classroom. Under the guidance of a park or reserve interpreter, teachers and students have an opportunity to study a wide array of themes including plants and leaves, animals and their habitats, wind patterns and soil erosion.

"This program is a unique learning opportunity for teachers and students, and has the added benefit of supplementing our primary and elementary science curriculum. At the same time, it promotes physical activity by allowing students to explore the outdoors," said the Honourable Darin King, Minister of Education. "I encourage schools to participate in this valuable and enjoyable learning experience."

The Parks as Nature's Classroom program is offered free of charge.　Due to high demand, teachers are encouraged to book early for space in the program. See the backgrounder below for further information.

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