Nature Classroom

Tomarata School has a beautiful area of native bush that has been set aside by the Barnes family as a memorial to Marie Flavell, a woman who worked tirelessly in special education for many decades. She wanted to create an area for local students, so they could experience education in an outdoor setting among the tall trees, where the natural beauty would inspire them.

Our students regularly visit our Nature Classroom. We are kaitiaki of the stream that runs through the bush; making sure that the eels are looked after, and the water quality is monitored. We study the plants the trees, and learn about how they grow and thrive. Bringing our local curriculum to life at our Nature Classroom enables us to explore learning in an authentic context that our students love. We also take time to do sketches, create artworks, make music, have fun and experience the peace that New Zealand’s native bush offers.