Bush Kinder at MECS

Each Friday, one of our 4 year old kindergarten classes at MECS steps into something special—Bush Kinder. Just a short walk from our main building, our bush site becomes a place of wonder, learning, and connection as children spend time in unstructured, open-ended play among the trees, logs, and earth.

At Bush Kinder, the land is our classroom. We begin each session gathered in our log circle, where we pause for an Acknowledgement of Country, recognising the Wurundjeri people and giving thanks for the land we are learning to love and care for. Then, it’s time to explore! Children climb trees, balance on logs, swing from ropes, and build strength and coordination as they move across uneven terrain. Rain or shine, we embrace the outdoors—after all, “there is no bad weather, only bad clothing!”

This time in the bush is more than just play—it’s a chance to learn, observe and connect with God’s creation. We count, draw what we see, notice the changes in the seasons, and discover the joy of curiosity. Covered in dirt, mud and smiles, children return from the bush filled with stories and wonder.

Bush Kinder helps us take the first steps in stewardship: to care for the land, we must first learn to love it. And love it we do.

Natasha Sharpe​

K4/5 Teacher