Planting Seeds of Change: LCS's Regenerative Farm and Environmental Responsibility
In a recent workshop at the "Door Number One Unconference," our Assistant Head: Sustainability Janice Greenshields and Farm Support and Curriculum Experience Coordinator Jade O’Keeffe presented an engaging session to school and sustainability leaders titled "Outdoors Every Day: How starting a regenerative farm has strengthened LCS’s strategic vision, sustainability action and value of environmental responsibility for all members of our community." The workshop showcased the innovative steps taken at our Northcote Campus to integrate a regenerative farm into the student experience and curriculum, aligning with the strategic vision of promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.
The session recounted the transformation of a once underutilized property into a flourishing farm that became a sanctuary during the pandemic. This space now offers a new platform for learning experiences in outdoor and sustainable living education, crucial for today’s students. With over 3,200 student visits each season and 11,000 lbs of vegetables harvested annually for community partners and the school, the project exemplifies practical environmental stewardship.
Moreover, the creation of a required Green Industries course for all Grade 9 students, starting Fall 2024, at LCS underlines the commitment to educational innovation in response to contemporary challenges such as AI, loneliness, mental health, social media, and climate change.
The outcomes of the workshop highlighted the importance of regenerative agriculture and provided participants with actionable plans for community-based climate change mitigation. It also featured a hands-on activity in natural dyeing, a student-favourite craft that enhances their connection with nature.
Janice, Jade and the entire Northcote Team’s work is a testament to the power of educational innovation in fostering student wellness and learning, serving as a model worth considering for schools everywhere. The impactful approach to integrating nature and education is truly inspiring for all who seek to make a difference in the world through teaching and learning.
School Information
4391 County Road 29, Lakefield Ontario K0L 2H0 705.652.3324 admissions@lcs.on.ca
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Lakefield College School is a private, coeducational boarding and day school for students in grades 9 through 12, located in Lakefield, Ontario, Canada.
We respectfully acknowledge that Lakefield College School is located on the Treaty 20 Michi Saagiig territory and in the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Nations, collectively known as the Williams Treaties First Nations, which include: Curve Lake, Hiawatha, Alderville, Scugog Island, Rama, Beausoleil, and Georgina Island First Nations. Lakefield College School respectfully acknowledges that the Williams Treaties First Nations are the stewards and caretakers of these lands and waters in perpetuity and that they continue to maintain this responsibility to ensure their health and integrity for generations to come.
We respectfully acknowledge that Lakefield College School is located on the Treaty 20 Michi Saagiig territory and in the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Nations, collectively known as the Williams Treaties First Nations, which include: Curve Lake, Hiawatha, Alderville, Scugog Island, Rama, Beausoleil, and Georgina Island First Nations. Lakefield College School respectfully acknowledges that the Williams Treaties First Nations are the stewards and caretakers of these lands and waters in perpetuity and that they continue to maintain this responsibility to ensure their health and integrity for generations to come.
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