PLA Vic/Tas has teamed up with research and industry groups in a new project to explore how green spaces in primary schools can enhance wellbeing, nature connection, physical activity and engagement.
The team will work with school students, staff and families to create new spaces filled with plants and trees, such as nature play areas, indoor plants and outdoor learning zones. Leading landscape designers will design the spaces with the school community and horticulture industries will provide the plants, labour and expertise to bring the new spaces to life.
The three-year project will be conducted at four intervention schools – two mainstream and two specialist – while another four control schools will not have any greening. This will allow researchers to compare the experiences and outcomes of both groups.
Lead researcher, Professor Jenny Veitch from Deakin University’s Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, said the project would examine the practicalities and challenges of implementing green spaces into school settings. “This is not just about planting more trees. We want to understand how green environments can support healthier, more inclusive and connected school communities,” Professor Veitch said.
As part of the study, researchers will interview school staff and industry partners, hold focus groups with students and co-design workshops with students and staff, track physical activity of students and survey the school community.
Funding statement: “Optimising green spaces in high-needs schools is funded through Hort Innovation Frontiers with co-investment from Deakin University, ecoDynamics, Tract consultants, Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria, Play Australia and Parks and Leisure Australia.