Dalkey School Project NS has been awarded €5,000 to collaborate with Blackrock Education Support Centre and three schools*, to build a professional learning community focused on Nature Based Learning (NBL). Through a Community of Practice, teachers shared expertise, resources, and reflective practice to embed outdoor, experiential learning across the curriculum. The project aimed to build teacher capacity and promote wellbeing, creativity, and environmental stewardship.
*List of collaborating schools:
- Monkstown Educate Together National School
- Dun Laoghaire Educate Together National School
- St. Cronan’s National School
Reflection
This Community of Practice is supporting teacher-led professional learning, collaboration, and the sharing of innovative practice. Bringing together DSPNS, METNS, DLETNS, St. Cronan’s and 10 additional schools, the initiative has developed a sustainable, cross-school model that builds collective capacity to embed Nature-Based Learning (NBL) in primary education.
The diversity of participants, across different contexts and levels of experience, has enriched professional dialogue and enabled meaningful peer mentorship and collaborative problem-solving. This has strengthened teachers’ roles as reflective practitioners and leaders of learning, while fostering a shared commitment to innovation in teaching practice.
Participants reported that the focus on sustained, experiential professional learning rather than one-off training was essential. Monthly sessions created space for reflection, practical application, and ongoing support, ensuring that learning was embedded and directly impactful in classrooms.
The initiative also supports national priorities, including the Education for Sustainable Development strategy and Nature Restoration Plan, by building teacher confidence and competence in fostering children’s connection with nature, ultimately enhancing pupil learning experiences.