Outdoor classroom teaches Diepsloot learners water wisdom through gardening
The mini water-wise garden opened at Reshomile Primary School in Diepsloot marked the school's efforts to get their students back to nature.
Reshomile Primary School in Diepsloot marked National Water Week with a groundbreaking celebration.
The official opening of its mini water–wise garden, inspired by this year’s powerful theme: Water and gender.
The newly launched garden was designed to promote water conservation, while highlighting the importance of equal access to resources. For a disadvantaged school, the space gives both girls and boys an opportunity to learn hands-on lessons about sustainable water use, while building a deeper connection with their environment.
Read more: Fourways Gardens EcoKids plant the seeds for a greener future
Generous donations made the project possible. Century Property Developments donated gardening tools valued at R5 000, including forks, spades, hoses, pruning sets, and picks.
Rand Water also contributed rakes, compost, and garden starter packs, along with hand tools and vegetable seeds, ensuring learners have the resources needed to maintain the garden.
“During the opening, learners showed excitement and pride as they explored the garden they had helped plant in the days leading up to the event,” said environmental education specialist Ignatia Nkgapele. “It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm, as many asked questions about the plants and showed genuine curiosity about caring for them.”
The garden will also serve as an outdoor classroom.
Also read: Children from Fourways Gardens and Diepsloot inspired to protect water and nature
Patience Maponyane explained that learners will be guided on how to use water wisely.
“We will teach them methods like watering plants using watering cans and collecting rainwater. They will water plants in the morning or during cooler times, reuse water where possible, and understand how mulch helps keep the soil moist.”
Beyond learning, the garden creates a recreational space where learners can relax, explore, and connect with nature, fostering creativity and a sense of pride and ownership.
The school plans to expand the garden with more trees and flowers, and possibly include a small reading and relaxation area.
“This will create a calm learning environment. It will help learners connect with nature, while improving their focus and wellbeing, as it has a bench where they will sit while they read.”
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