Term Two Seasonal Learning
This term is full of events and opportunities related to nature and sustainability, encouraging us to celebrate and plant trees, take our learning outside and take part in projects about biodiversity and birds. As we move into the colder months, we can engage with the changing seasons and strengthen our connection with te taiao by preparing for the return of Matariki or Puanga.
Read our Ngahuru | Autumn Seasonal Learning spotlight for ideas and check out the list of events below. You could also use the Autumn and Winter seasonal slideshows from DOC to find ideas for nature connection over the coming seasons.
Click on the bold headings below to access resources, websites and more information about these events.
Week 1
Conservation Week April 20 - 26
This national event usually takes place in September but has moved to April this year. Take action for nature in your school and local community, with resources and ideas on the Department of Conservation website.
Earth Day April 22
This year's theme is "Our Power, Our Planet" and it aligns nicely with our local Conservation Week.
City Nature Challenge April 24 - 27
If you're based in one of our main cities, you could join this fun Citizen Science opportunity focused on biodiversity.
Week 3
Primary Science Week May 4 - 10
This annual event aims to support primary school kaiako and ākonga with science learning and this year's theme is "Catch that carbon!"
International Compost Awareness Week May 3 - 9
This year’s theme, “Compost! Feed the Soil that Feeds Us,” highlights the vital role compost plays in sustaining life on land.
For an Aotearoa context: read or watch Te Kauwhata Community Compost Hub which features the work of Para Kore.
Week 5
Outdoor Classroom Day May 21
Read our Spotlight collection: Nature Connection for Aotearoa Educators for lots of ideas to take your learning outside - something you can do any day of the year!
International Day for Biodiversity May 22
This year's theme is "Acting locally for global impact". For an Aotearoa focus, watch this short and engaging video from DOC - Ranger Kōrero: Exploring Biodiversity
Week 7
World Environment Day and Arbor Day June 5
The focus for World Environment Day this year is a Global Call for Climate Action.
Arbor Day is also celebrated on June 5th, so keep an eye out for council or community planting events near you. Read Rākau | Trees in our Learning Spaces to find out more about growing and planting trees in your school grounds.
Week 8
World Ocean Day June 8
This year's theme is "Strong marine protected areas for our Blue Planet."
Week 9
Winter Solstice June 21
Learn more about seasonal celebrations with tamariki in Juliet Batten's books: Celebrating the Southern Seasons and Sun, Moon and Stars.
Week 10 - 11
NZ Garden Bird Survey June 27 - July 5 (dates TBC)
We highly recommend encouraging your ākonga to get involved with this engaging and accessible citizen science project. The website has lots of resources and advice specifically designed for teachers and young people. You can also use the resources to carry out a bird survey at any time of the year within your school grounds or local park (you just can't add this data to the national survey).
Plastic Free July
Find information specific to Aotearoa NZ on the Plastic Free July Aotearoa Facebook page.
July School Holidays
Matariki Public Holiday July 10
Read our Spotlight: Matariki, Environment and Wellbeing for ideas and resources
