Lessons grow from classroom to nature through garden continued from p.21 them less vulnerable to blowing over in the wind, another student explained. Tiny squash plants also help discourage predators from approaching the corn and beans, another added. The story mirrors that of the Pilgrim Wood community that has worked collaboratively to create the outdoor space. From the initial seed idea two years ago, to the parents, students and supporters who have put their time, effort and money into the project, the school community has a garden in which all can take immense pride. Principal Gurdeep Lall told the Oakville Beaver parents, students and staff are even sharing the responsibility of keeping the space alive and thriving. He said he's extremely proud of how the school community mobilized to bring the space to life. Students sold reusable bottles over the school year, hosted numerous fundraising initiatives -- including an environmental film festival and pizza days -- and received donations from the community. Pilgrim Wood also received education and guidance from Ontariogreen, a $5,000 grant from TD Friends of the Environment, a $4,500 grant from the Oakville Community Foundation, and a $2,000 grant from Whole Foods. Grade 5 and 6 French immersion teacher Sarah Lowes, who came up with the idea of the garden, said it has been rewarding to see how much the community enjoys the space. Students are learning hands-on and really taking ownership of the project, she said. Andrea Rowe, a parent volunteer who has spent a lot of the time helping maintain the green space, said it has sparked "inquisitiveness" in the students. "It's such a fantastic way for kids to extend their classroom learning outside and give it something tangible to relate to," she said. "They're just naturally curious about the world 23 | Thursday, November 5, 2015 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com It's such a fantastic way for kids to extend their classroom learning outside and give it something tangible to relate to. They're just naturally curious about the world around them so if I can help with that, that's what I'm passionate about. parent volunteer Andrea Rowe around them so if I can help with that, that's what I'm passionate about." Grade 5 student James Hume said it's been a fun project to work on. He remembers digging all the holes for the plants and helping build the raised garden beds. "Digging the holes was hard because you were out in weather like this today, all day, and it was hard soil to dig up," he said. Now that it's harvest time, he enjoys tasting the food and spending time outdoors. Hume said he also enjoys when the garden is used as an outdoor classroom. Lowes hopes other schools will think of building an outdoor classroom in their community. There are a number of grants available, she says, that can really help fund the project get off the ground. Whole Foods representative France Fournier said the grocery chain offers grants of $2,000 for garden projects. Schools and non-profit organizations can apply online until Nov. 15 at www. wholekidsfoundation.org or contact her at france.fournier@wholefoods.com. 2015 Diamond Award winner Since 1967 upholstery & design Oakville's Best Upholsterer! Sofas · Chairs · Headboards · Throw Pillows · Drapery & Hardware 11-2345 Wyecroft Rd, Oakville · 905.616.3156 · www.baiers.ca