Outdoor & Environment 

The Unit 3 & 4 Outdoor and Environmental Studies class have been studying biodiversity and observable characteristics in our natural environment. As part of their studies and in line with Planet Ark’s Schools Tree Day on Friday 31 July, the girls took to the veggie patch to investigate the quality of the soil and to plant some new veggies. 

Spending time in the outdoors and getting our hands dirty also explores the character strength of grit and a strategy for coping with setbacks in light of the current situation. 

A new report by Planet Ark has revealed that time spent in nature has amazing benefits for our health and wellbeing, so the Outdoor Ed class is encouraging everyone in the MGSC community to get outdoor and explore nature in your local area! The report titled Adding Trees - A Prescription for Health, Happiness and Fulfilment, found:

• Just 10 minutes relaxing outside is enough to significantly reduce blood pressure.
• Time in nature reduces a person’s chance of developing a range of diseases, including diabetes by 43%, cardiovascular disease and stroke by 37% and depression by 25%.
• Nature induces positive feelings through a number of physiological mechanisms, including activating the brain’s dopamine reward system.
• Students who take part in outdoor learning programs perform better in reading, writing, maths and science, with 77% of teachers reporting student improvement in standardised tests.
• A strong connection to nature makes people more likely to feel passionate about relationships with their friends and family.

 Justine Bowers 

Health & Physical Education Domain Leader