Trust opens sensory garden at Seotloana Primary School
The plants are also hardy so that it can withstand the children’s constant touch and other challenges experienced
Peermont Community Benefit Trust (PCBT), a corporate social investment (CSI) initiative of Emperors Palace, recently created a sensory garden at Seotloana Primary School.
PCBT manager Jenny Findlay said while the garden has added to the greening of the school, the idea is that it can be used as a fun, educational tool.
“The garden is divided into different sections, namely taste, smell, touch and sound, which allows learners to explore through their senses and learn about nature. The garden creates a safe and developmentally appropriate outdoor learning environment with curriculum benefits, especially with regards subjects like life sciences,” adds Findlay.
Findlay said the garden is suitable for all the learners from Grade R through to Grade Seven and gives educators an opportunity to conduct outdoor classes where learners can find out more about the plants and herbs.
Plantcentric’s Calvin Becker, who designed and installed the garden, said: “We planted easy to grow plants that have interesting textures, striking colours, stimulating aromas, tasty leaves and flowers, with some also creating intriguing sounds.
“The plants are also hardy so that it can withstand the children’s constant touch and other challenges experienced in keeping a primary school garden thriving.”
Seotloana Primary School is one of two schools where the PCBT have planted a sensory garden.
The other has been created at Ntsikana Primary School in Daveyton. More of these gardens will be established at selected schools in the area.
“One of the main goals of the trust is to educate and empower learners, and these gardens are a fun, outdoor way to impart knowledge to children of all ages,” Findlay concludes.
