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Even smaller projects can provide valuable examples for further work. Growth in Grounds was developed by Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland working with South Belfast primary schools to improve the schools' grounds. The basic aim was to involve teachers, pupils and the local community in school ground development projects, but added to that was the desire to utilise those school grounds in the delivery of the National Curriculum by providing a more stimulating and exciting area for children to play, learn and grow. This also offered children and young people the opportunity to voice their opinions and actively participate in changing their environment for the better. The project has led to a big increase in parental and community interest in school grounds. Many of the children's fathers got actively involved in the work and helped deliver high quality end results. The children now have an engaging and stimulating environment for education and play, and, equally importantly, they also have the right to have their say in how this environment looks and is developed. Whenever they see their views being considered and their manpower required in carrying out the work, they are more likely to feel valued, and it makes them want to care for and look after their surroundings. The teachers of children directly involved in the GIG projects have reported better communication skills and behavioural improvements, and it is hoped that this will result in lower levels of vandalism, truancy and bullying in the long-term. The lessons learned from this project in terms of involving both parents and children in planning and implementing projects have informed further work that CVNI have done as part of EfA. All content copyright © 1986-2008 BTCV Ltd. Registered charity No. 261009 |
