Ready for a deeper look into Walker Learning? This 3-day intensive takes a closer look at Walker Learning in action with the second day focussing on setting up Environments and the core elements of Walker Learning. On the final day, we look at introducing a nature pedagogy and enhancing literacy and numeracy connections during Investigations.

Description

WALKER LEARNING JANUARY INTENSIVE - OPTION 2

Walker Learning Virtual Study Tour including a Walker Learning Overview, Creating Engaging & Intentional Learning Environments, Linking Literacy and Numeracy through Investigations, and Introducing a Nature Pedagogy.

Weds 18th,  Thurs 19th & Fri 20th Jan 2023

10.30am - 4.30pm AEDT
10.00am - 4.00pm SA
9.30am - 3.30pm QLD
9.00am - 3.00pm AEDT
7.30am - 1.30pm WA

Ready for a deeper look into Walker Learning? This 3-day intensive takes a closer look at Walker Learning in action with the second day focussing on setting up Environments and the core elements of Walker Learning. Complete 18 hours (excluding breaks) of PD.

Please note, when you are booking this event, enter the EARLYBIRD code in the PROMOTIONAL CODE window at the checkout. Click apply and the discount amount will be deducted from your order total.

Day 1 (full day): Walker Learning Virtual Study Tour (Preschool to Year 2)

The Virtual Tour takes you to a school where you will observe students and teachers in action, demonstrating the Walker Learning Approach. You will observe: tuning in, reflection, the learning environment, focus children and reporter and photographer. Further professional learning by our consultant follows, including unpacking the core elements of the pedagogy and using a virtual showcase of the core elements from Walker Learning classrooms across Australia.

Day 2 AM: Play Matters - A Walker Learning Overview

This session is an introductory presentation of the key elements of Walker Learning in the early years (ages 5 - 8). This session includes an overview of the following; the research and philosophy of Walker Learning, how to set up inspiring learning environments, the investigation session, how to authentically link literacy and numeracy into Investigations, implementation strategies for teams and schools and an introduction to Walker Learning documentation which links to the existing curriculum framework.

Completing Play Matters - A Walker Learning Overview will contribute 3 hours of NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) Accredited PD in the priority area of Delivery and assessment of NSW Curriculum/Early Years Learning Framework addressing standard descriptors 1.2.2 from the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers towards maintaining Proficient Teacher Accreditation in NSW.

Day 2 PM: Creating Engaging & Intentional Learning Environments

How do we create engaging and meaningful environments that promote and sustain children’s learning through play?

This session explores the importance of creating spaces that nurture and inspire whilst facilitating learning.

You will also see examples of how to add and use everyday materials within a realistic budget to assist children in their learning, engagement, and exploration both indoors and outdoors.

Completing Creating Engaging and Intentional Learning Environments will contribute 3 hours of NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) Accredited PD in the priority area of Delivery and assessment of NSW Curriculum/Early Years Learning Framework addressing standard descriptors 1.1.2, 2.5.2 & 3.3.2 from the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers towards maintaining Proficient Teacher Accreditation in NSW.

Day 3 AM: Linking Literacy, Numeracy, and Subject Areas to Investigations and Learning Environments

Join us online for this extension workshop-style PD which explores through the use of presentation slides, expert discussion and audience Q&A a range of practical strategies and ideas to assist teachers in providing additional and meaningful literacy and numeracy into the school day.

The session will focus on the variety of ways literacy, numeracy and subject areas can be strengthened and enhanced during Investigation time. We examine how literacy and numeracy links are made through planning, documentation and conversation, and how explicit instruction continues during formal teaching throughout the day.

In addition, we review the importance of creating open-ended learning spaces that nurture and inspire whilst facilitating learning and linking to the curriculum framework.

This is PD is suited to practitioners and leaders who have already commenced implementing the Walker Learning Approach and are using the Walker Learning Planning & Documentation.

Completing Linking Literacy, Numeracy, and Subject Areas to Investigations and Learning Environment will contribute 3 hours of NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) Accredited PD in the priority area of Delivery and assessment of NSW Curriculum/Early Years Learning Framework addressing standard descriptors 2.5.2 & 3.3.2 from the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers towards maintaining Proficient Teacher Accreditation in NSW.

Day 3 PM: Introducing a Nature Pedagogy - Curriculum Connections Outdoors

Research tells us that the outdoors provides the best environment to support children's wellbeing, development, and deeper learning. All of which matter more than ever to teachers and students. Build your children’s understanding of the importance of nature in their daily lives to contribute to more sustainable ways of living. Let us inspire you with nature learning opportunities in your context and see how a nature pedagogy addresses curriculum outcomes.

Using video footage, PowerPoint presentation, and expert commentary we will immerse you in the benefits of regularly teaching and learning syllabus content in a natural outdoor setting. Explore how learning outcomes and links to the curriculum can be met naturally as children fully engage in their learning and investigate in the outdoor environment. See how regular visits to the ever-changing outdoor environment provides a canvas for children’s learning, problem-solving, and creative expression. You will experience children learning holistically across the curriculum whilst demonstrating a deep respect for the natural environment and their place in it.

Hear from practicing teachers about the positive results the introduction of a nature pedagogy has created. Watch children and teachers authentically immersed in learning and how this provides opportunities for linking and connecting to formal learning and content. In addition, we will be joined by Jenn Reed, an Educational Landscape Designer who will bring ideas and inspiration for creating nature spaces within any setting - from rural locations to inner city playgrounds. Jenn also has a wealth of information on sourcing materials and writing grant proposals to fund turning your setting into a natural oasis. 

Let us inspire you to incorporate your natural setting with a pedagogy that suits our times, our teaching practice, and our children.

Australian Professional Teaching Standards: 1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.5, 3.4, 3.6, 3.7, 4.1, 4.2, 5.4, 6.2, 6.3

Ideally suited for educators who are new to or early in their Walker Learning journey and working with children from 3 to 8 years.

Walker Learning Approach Pathway

The Walker Learning Pathway
The Walker Learning Approach is a journey and is best implemented through a pathway of PD modules which can be attended online or delivered as customised sessions to your school.