Banded Peak School received funding from the Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds to create natural, inviting school grounds and an opportunity to connect with nature.

Cochrane Toyota and Toyota Evergreen Learning Grounds contributed $2050 in funding to the Bragg Creek school.

Shara Masiuk, Grade 1/2 teacher says with 40 acres of land they wanted to teach the K-8 students a hands on approach when it comes to nature. One thing the school is looking at is creating a community vegetable garden.

"It only makes sense to teach them through a hands on approach and inquiry to learn about growing. The questions they came up with 'How do the worms get in the soil? How does a seed start?' and the amazing ideas that these guys have."

The school is starting it from the grassroots or seed level by having 6 raised garden beds to start with, each child will also receive a half square metre to do their own experiments. More than science, students will be able to tap into many parts of the curriculum.

While mostly a 1/2 project, Masiuk is hoping all the grades in Banded Peak will be able to contribute. The idea is hopefully to expand on the community gardens with the addition of compost bins, perennial gardening, and learning about long range sustainability.