Surrounded by pristine tropical rainforest, it’s no wonder that Freshwater Christian College places a high priority on nature play and outdoor learning. The Kindergarten to Year 12 Christian Independent school located centrally in Brinsmead has its very own freshwater creek onsite which provides a wonderful space for children to explore and discover nature. The College has continued to invest in nature-based learning with the installation of nature playgrounds to help students to unlock their imagination and creativity. The central focus of these spaces is to create a foundation for play, equipping children with the space to explore and spark their imagination amongst nature.
Junior Primary Nature Playground
In August 2022, students celebrated the opening of their latest nature play space – the ‘Junior Primary Nature Playground’ – with a Teddy Bears Picnic. Mr Max Natoli, Head of Primary School said, “This playground will enable our Junior Primary students to develop positive relationships with our natural environment, providing them with opportunities to enhance their creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skill sets.”
This new nature playground is just one part of the extensive ‘Masterplan Strategy’ the College has invested in since 2019, including a new Senior Primary building completed at the end of 2021, the outstanding Kindergarten Nature Play area, and $2.3 million Design technology facility, the ‘Hector Costello Innovation Centre’ that opened in 2019.
Bush Kindy at Freshwater
The College is intentional about surrounding students in nature from an early age. Freshwater Christian College’s nature-based learning program starts in Kindergarten with their very popular ‘Bush Kindy’ Program, where children visit and explore the onsite Freshwater Creek. The children love to stride in the water, climb amongst the trees, and explore the rainforest.
Why is Nature Play Important?
Evidence shows that children who play freely in the great outdoors are healthier in body and mind. New studies also suggest that active engagement with the natural environment reduces stress and relieves depression in all ages.
You can experience nature-play at Freshwater Christian College by attending one of our Principal’s Tours. Join us as we explore our 40 acre lush tropcial Campus at Freshwater in Cairns.