Nature Based Education & Experiences
Having opportunities to be exposed to nature is not only important for individuals (psychologically and emotionally) but also inspires protection of environments. The KZN Crane Foundation has created opportunities for Nature Based Education and Experiences within the Bill Barnes Crane and Oribi Nature Reserve. KZNCF’s education programme includes facilitating educators in environmental content and teaching methodologies linked to their curriculum.
Building and drawing on the educational concept of “Scaffolding”, the foundations created by the Cranes-in-the-Classroom project (conducted in the 2010s), KZNCF developed their two education projects; (1) Nature-Based Education (NbE) and (2) Professional Teacher Learning Community (PTLC).
KZNCF offers Nature Based Experiences within the Mistbelt Grassland Biome. The opportunities include over 30kms of trails, a bird-hide trail and wetland crossing boardwalk.
Our Nature Based Education & Experiences
Nature-Based Education
KZNCF identified a gap in the education systems in this region, where schools do not have the opportunity for learners to be exposed to, or even get into, natural areas. Based on the concept that: “we cannot expect people to look after our environment and natural areas if they have not had opportunities to experience them”, KZNCF conducts Nature-based Excursions in the Bill Barnes Crane and Oribi Nature Reserve.
By immersing students in nature, we allow them to connect with the environment on a personal level. This empowers individuals with the knowledge, skills, and values related to preservation of nature areas and environment. NbE is a learning approach that brings nature into education. By connecting students with the natural world we cannot only connect their classroom learning to the natural environment but also inspire them to become responsible global citizens, and encouraging them to take action in their communities.
KZNCF has developed an Education Trail, which transverses through different ecosystems, including a boardwalk over one of the wetlands, in KZNCF’s Nature Reserve. Each year learners and teachers from the schools in the KZN Midlands are hosted at the Usher Centre and Nature Reserve.
Professional Teacher Learning Community
National studies have shown that South African teachers do not have prior training or experience relating to the environmental content knowledge component of the curriculum. In order to assist the teachers with their environmental teaching, KZN initiated the Professional Teachers’ Learning Community Workshops. Once a term, representatives from the schools in the KZN Midlands get together in the PTLC Workshops. Under the guidance of an environmental education expert, the teachers work together on different environmental topics linked to their curriculum requirements. Here teachers are able to improve their content knowledge, indicate which areas they are not confident in and, in some cases, unlearn some previous misunderstandings.
We acknowledge that teaching is one of the most difficult, yet significant, professions. Motivating and supporting the teachers in their general teaching, while emphasising the importance of their careers, is also focused on during the workshops. Teachers have indicated that they find the workshops allow them to become leaders in the environmental sectors at their schools and where they can share lessons learnt with other teachers.
Nature-Based Experiences
KZNCF acknowledges the importance of the general public to have easy access to safe and biodiverse rich natural areas. International studies have shown the significant physiological and emotional benefits to time spent in nature. KZNCF has developed over 30kms of well-maintained trails which transect the 425 hectares of the Bill Barnes Crane and Oribi Reserve. The trails allow for Nature Based Experiences in the Mistbelt Grassland Biome, with magnificent views over the Central Drakensberg (60km away). The trails include a Bird-Hide walk and viewing hide looking over a large dam, a wetland boardwalk and transect a variety of ecosystems.
Bee Hive and Insect Garden
An Observation Beehive and swarm was installed in the Usher Centre. They settled quickly into their new home and are gathering pollen and nectar from the surrounding veld. All of the comings and goings of the bees can be seen from a safe vantage point whilst the workers build beautiful golden comb laden with honey and goodness for the larvae and pupae to flourish. The bees are an invaluable real education lesson about plant pollination and the critically important role they – and other pollinators – play in biodiversity.
How can you help?
We are creating a bee-friendly indigenous. garden at the User Centre and would love any bee-friendly, indigenous plants that you are removing from your garden, or if you would like to make a donation to the garden.
We will be working on an observation garden for the learners and will be making calls for additional requirements.
If you have any plants, would like to make a donation or need more information, please contact our administrator.
Teacher Feedback
Our Education Trail
Our Education Trail is a curated experience that allows students and teachers to explore the diverse ecosystems within the Bill Barnes Oribi and Crane Nature Reserve. The trail traverses various landscapes, offering a window into South Africa’s rich biodiversity. Students are encouraged to observe, ask questions, and interact with the environment in meaningful ways.
Wetland Exploration
Experience the wonders of a wetland ecosystem, where students can observe indigenous plants, birds and small animals, and learn about the role of wetlands in water purification and biodiversity support.
Grassland Habitat Exploration
Discover the unique flora and fauna of mistbelt grassland ecosystems, including crane, oribi and insects, which serve as indicators of ecosystem health. Learn about the role various species play in keeping the ecosystem working.
Community Impact
Our programs are not just about education—they’re about building a community that values and supports the natural environment. Each year, hundreds of students and teachers participate in our Nature-Based Education & Experiences programs, and the impact extends far beyond our reserve. By fostering environmental awareness and conservation ethics in young people, we are cultivating a generation that will make sustainable choices and advocate for biodiversity protection.
Program Impact at a Glance:
Get Involved
There are many ways to support our Nature-Based Education & Experiences program:
Time Support
There are plenty of opportunities to help in our bee-friendly garden and support the gardens around the Usher Centre.
Financial Support
Donate towards education displays at the Usher Centre to provide more hands-on learning opportunities.
Trail Support
Our trails need constant maintenance and signage updates. We need assistance with time and financial support.
Join us in making a difference for our grassland ecosystems and inspiring the next generation of environmental enthusiasts!