ParkLife education

ParkLife education programmes

ParkLife is an education programme to encourage people of all ages to get outdoors and explore our parks.

It’s a great way for people to:

• care for their local park
• learn about park wildlife such as hedgehogs, bees and squirrels
• interact with others
• play and exercise
• enjoy the fresh air
• become self reliant

The main elements for ParkLife involve school visits and events with community groups.

The schools element of the programme has been running from 2007 and has been evaluated by Queen’s University Belfast as a positive learning experience for children.

ParkLife for schools

We work with schools to offer children seasonal-themed visits and learning about:

• animal and bird survival
• how trees change with the seasons
• minibeasts and how to find them
• history and heritage in our parks

Learning outside the classroom can help to improve students’ personal and social development. Every element of the ParkLife programme is closely linked to the curriculum.

ParkLife is available to schools within the Belfast City Council area. The programme is tailored to Key Stage 2 and aimed at Primary 4 and 5 (ages 7-9). The visits will take place in the nearest park or open space over three seasons autumn, winter and spring. There is no cost to the school for the sessions. If your school is not already involved in the programme, to register your interest, email parklife@belfastcity.gov.uk

Resources

We have developed seasonal educational resources and activities for individuals or groups. For a range of resources, email parklife@belfastcity.gov.uk.

ParkLife for community groups

ParkLife is available to people of all ages. If your community group or charity are interested in having an environmental themed session in one of our parks, to register your interest email parklife@belfastcity.gov.uk

• Activities can be tailored for your group
• Seasonal interest multiple visits can be arranged

ParkLife is available to community groups and charities working within the Belfast City Council area. Any park can be included as part of the programme. There is no cost to the group or charity for the session. To register your interest, email parklife@belfastcity.gov.uk