Outdoor Classroom
This exciting project will provide the students of Coronation Elementary School with an inviting outdoor space for learning and expressing creativity. This project also aims to increase accessibility on school grounds, revitalize the existing gardens, establish new garden areas, and recognize and honour Canada’s Indigenous peoples.
Working in phases, the School is partnering with Coronation School Council as well as the North Glenora Sustainability Committee – a standing committee of the North Glenora Community League – to complete this project. The plan involves students, staff, and residents of the community, harnessing the establishment of the site as an educational opportunity as it develops.
The 4 phases of the project include: Revitalization of the native garden; Buildings of an outdoor classroom; Additional gardens; and increasing Accessibility.
Project Maps
Click on the images below to see layout details.
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- Full Project Map
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- Project Map Part 1
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- Project Map Part 2
Project Timeline
Click on the dates below to see details of the timeline.
Phase 1 – Revitalization of native garden
In the mid-90s, a landscaper designed and installed a garden area on the site. The design included many native plants. However, over the years, some plants have died and there are many new trees and plants that require transplanting to other locations.
This phase will focus on cataloging existing plants, clearing and pruning overgrowth as well as reinstalling edging along a pathway, restoring the path itself, and planting new native, shade-loving plants in the areas where they are lacking.
Phase 2 – Development of the Outdoor Classroom
The North Glenora Sustainability Committee, the staff and students of Coronation School, the Community League, and the EPSB are working together to establish an outdoor classroom for Coronation School. The need for outdoor classroom facilities was magnified by the pandemic and the desire for an outdoor learning space was identified as a priority by teachers in a staff survey conducted at the outset of this project.
The outdoor classroom will be constructed during the fall of 2024 and will include natural log seating, a weather-proof covered chalkboard, and a pathway and ramp for accessibility.
Phase 3 – Schoolyard Naturalized Gardens
During this phase, the remainder of the front yard area (about 20% of the schoolyard) will be naturalized with native plants selected specifically for their ability to sequester high amounts of CO2. The project aims to weave Indigenous knowledge throughout by partnering with Indigenous Elders and integrating elements and references to Truth and Reconciliation throughout.
A Peace Garden and a Truth and Reconciliation Garden will also be established during this phase. The Peace Garden will primarily be student-led and the Truth and Reconciliation Garden will be developed with a cultural educator and Indigenous community partners. Elements and references to Truth & Reconciliation will be integrated throughout the schoolyard garden site.
Phase 4 – Increase Accessibility
Pathways and ramps will be added for safe and easy access to the outdoor classroom and garden areas to ensure that those students with mobility issues will be able to easily access all outdoor learning opportunities.
Currently there are no accessibility considerations for students or staff with mobility challenges.
Sponsors and Acknowledgements
